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    <title>Phoenix Urban Living</title>
    <link>https://activerain.com/blogs/johnnybingo</link>
    <description>Michael Fitzpatrick, who owns the branch of HomeSmart and is the founder of www.phoenixurbanliving.com. The company solely focuses on selling loft, high rise, live/work, row home, historic and modern homes and condos in Phoenix, Tempe and Scottsdale and it's website (www.phoenixurbanliving.com) is the most comprehensive and complete resource for the urban buyer in Phoenix, Tempe and Scottsdale. </description>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1510668/what-is-trending-right-now-in-urban-</guid>
      <title>What is trending right now in urban?</title>
      <description>Well the mid-winter urban market in Phoenix is hotter than ever. We are seeing large demand in the 150-400K range in downtown Phoenix, midtown Phoenix and the Biltmore area. Increasingly people are recognizing that these corridors offer allot of unique properties at very compelling prices especially when compared to Scottsdale and downtown Tempe. Since November we've seen demand increase by 40% with inventory decrease by as much as 50%. This is exciting because now in certain areas and projects we see demand equal to supply which we haven't seen for sometime. These are the 'tea leaves' of recovery in the urban market and since this market has a much smaller supply of homes than the suburban areas of Phoenix, urban will recover quicker and in better shape. As mentioned in an earlier article, days on market came back to the average of 110 days a couple months ago. We now are below that averaging 75 days. Of course we are coming into our 'season' here in Phoenix and that usually adds a bit more demand than usual however we much farther ahead than last year. This is all positive signs so keep your chin up!! Check out all the propeties at www.phoenixurbanliving.com. M.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Tue, 23 Feb 2010 09:33:46 -0800</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1510668/what-is-trending-right-now-in-urban-</link>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1496485/fha-approved-projects-should-perform-better-</guid>
      <title>FHA approved projects should perform better.</title>
      <description>FHA has long been a great vehicle for first time home buyers to purchase property. Recent changes in legislation has made it easier and more difficult at the same time for people to qualify for FHA financing (leave it up to legislators to solve a problem and then create another). They've increased the down payment and FICO requirements but have dropped certain project requirements. If your an urban buyer looking for an FHA approved project, there are very few options that will appeal to you. Most are more traditional, Arizona style large condominium projects that are away from the core and mass transit. However, there are a few unique projects in downtown Phoenix nestled neatly in the urban landscape like Evergreen 9 and Portland 38 that are FHA approved. I believe that since these are really the only architecturally unique, FHA approved projects that are close to downtown Phoenix that this will add to property values within those communities. FHA regulations are only getting more challenging and existing approved projects should benefit from these newer regulations. The same will hopefully be true of Century Plaza. At one point the project was FHA approved and hopefully the new owners will continue to pursue FHA approval. Since getting a loan isn't what it used to be and the largest growing segment of buyers is FHA buyers then the properties should become much more desirable. This is also a good strategy for an investor looking to buy. If a project is FHA approved then the largest group of buyers would qualify to purchase in that project. As an investor that spells liquidity. Something to keep in mind. M.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Tue, 16 Feb 2010 03:08:27 -0800</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1496485/fha-approved-projects-should-perform-better-</link>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1481462/buying-at-auction--is-it-really-a-good-buy-</guid>
      <title>Buying at auction. Is it really a good buy?</title>
      <description>This has been the topic of discussion lately with my good friend and business partner Will Daly. We have been working on a few new and exciting incentive programs for certain buyers who have unique needs and requirements. As we looked into auctions as an avenue for our buyers to purchase urban property we've uncovered possible challenges. 1). Banks do not have a good understanding of how to value urban condos in the current fluid market. Many times they are so disconnected from the micro economics of these types of properties and unfortunately consult real estate practitioners that do not know the niche as well. This causes the banks to misvalue the property when it goes to auction usually based more on the mortgage value rather than current market value. This is why many urban properties go back to the bank rather than purchased at a trustee sale by a third party. 2). There is no traditional title services with these transactions which means the property 'could' have clouds on the title and possible unmarketable deed. 3). Properties purchased at auction need to close within 24 hours so there is no traditional financing with these properties. You need to pay cash. Of course you can finance the property after the fact but you'll need to cash at close. 4). Mostly buyers will not be able to view the property prior to purchase so it's truly a "buyer beware" transaction and buyers need to be fully informed of the project they are buying into and any possible risks. 5). Buyers need to be working with a real estate professional before hand to truly pinpoint a value on the property that is coming up for auction and any weighted risks. You will have no idea if the bid price set by the bank the night before is reflective of the current market value. What looks like a steal might be expensive unless the right analysis is done before hand. These are things we think about everyday to help ensure a positive transaction for our buyers.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Mon, 08 Feb 2010 06:03:52 -0800</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1481462/buying-at-auction--is-it-really-a-good-buy-</link>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1442390/how-much-do-you-really-know-about-urban-</guid>
      <title>How much do you really know about urban?</title>
      <description>With the amount of urban inquiries we get, Will and I are sometimes taken back by the lack of understanding most buyers have of this type of product. Most people are used to single family homes where "it is what it is". If it looks like and sounds like a duck then it's gotta be a duck right? Well, as far as urban is concerned, you would be wrong. Each project is unique in it's design, floor plans, amenities, HOA dues, taxes, ownership vs renters, infrastructure challenges, location and convenience, ability to get loans for units in the project, status in regards to future price erosion, etc.. These are all VERY material concerns that could very much affect the buyers ability to purchase, protect their investmentand make the transaction a positive in the short and long term. Now these are not the only questions (that is why you call us) but these are basics that 100% of the buyers who contacting us are not thinking about for the most part. We see the destruction of personal wealth all around us and mistakes made are prominently displayed through "For Sale" signs of distressed properties. With this still very much affecting everyone wouldn't you think it would be prudent to truly understand your real estate investments before you make them? Real estate is such a common commodity that most people believe that they understand it enough to make an educated decision. However, like everything, unless you study it and work in it everyday there is no way for you to truly understand it. Wouldn't it be important to get an understanding of: 1). Whether your investment will go up or down in the next two years? 2). Whether or not you can obtain a loan to purchase within that project given your financial goals? 3). Even though you have cash, does it makes sense to for you to use that cash to purchase a specific piece of property? 4). Does the project have 'looming' infrastructure problems that could drastically affect your cost basis or laden you with a large one time assessment? 5). How is the area trending as far as appreciation? 6). Is the project slowly turning into a rental community and how does that affect values going forward? 7). Does buying short sales make sense in urban projects? If so, which ones. 8). Is there specific floor plans, orientations, etc.. that perform better than others? I could go on but I'll stop there and these are just SOME of the questions that help you the buyer to be more informed and thus make a better decision. Most real estate companies do not focus on this and that is why buying mistakes are still being made which could cost buyers plenty. We are here to help answer these questions and many more. There are amazing opportunities but you need to know what to look for and we can help with that. Thanks, Will and fitz.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Tue, 19 Jan 2010 06:16:15 -0800</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1442390/how-much-do-you-really-know-about-urban-</link>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1429312/luxury-urban-market-starting-to-pick-up-</guid>
      <title>Luxury urban market starting to pick up.</title>
      <description>The past two years have been nothing short of 'interesting'. The middle of 2009 (June/July/August) saw a surge of buying in the 300K and below segment. This was perceived as deals since the overall price points started to come in line with commonly used rental equations. Thus the cash on cash return was starting to get very attractive to investors and second home buyers who initially wanted to use the property as a investment vehicle since their paper investments were not performing. The luxury market, say 500K and above has been ice cold for the past 18 months and once you get into the super luxury estates or condos, that market doesn't exist today since there really are no buyers (at least in volume). An argument could be made that the luxury market could 'hang on' longer since they had more resources (money) to wait out the recession. Well it appears they can wait no longer. We are seeing distressed properties in form of short sales and foreclosures creeping into this market which in turn is attracting speculative investors. Six months ago there wasn't hardly any inquiries into luxury condos since most people were pulling their horns in to weather the storm. Now it appears that consumer sentiment is getting better, investments are performing, people are feeling more confident and thus demand for luxury distressed properties is starting to increase. I would have to say we've had 75% increase in the amount of inquiries in the luxury market over the past three months. Since the holidays that we've seen that figure probably double. I believe 2010 will be a year with allot of activity in the luxury market with a majority of it being speculative investors and move down buyers. The unfortunate part of this story is it's all based upon distressed property which means someones hardship will become someones opportunity. M.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Tue, 12 Jan 2010 03:28:44 -0800</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1429312/luxury-urban-market-starting-to-pick-up-</link>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1108111/know-what-you-want-is-key-</guid>
      <title>Know what you want is key.</title>
      <description>We get literally 50-75 inquiries a week in regards to urban real estate in the Phoenix area. Of these, many people do not take the time to understand their own needs/requirements, limitations and goals. We take allot of time upfront to better understand what is truly important and what fits your life, finances and dreams. This allows us to better position property that best suites your needs and eliminate the properties that work against those needs. First and foremost, people need to understand their fiances both today and the future along with what their life may look like (marriage, career move, more travel, children, etc...). Next they (you) need to like the area and the area needs to support their interests and quality of life. Next they (you) need to find a home that functionally works for you today and tomorrow. Next, a good sound investment (not at the expense of quality of life--i.e. the ole' "I can get more home in Buckeye"--see where that left you?!?). We do this all day, everyday and we have a great sense and ability to help you navigate these decisions. Let us help you. Thanks! M.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Tue, 09 Jun 2009 05:05:46 -0700</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1108111/know-what-you-want-is-key-</link>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1108091/under-tow-in-the-urban-market-</guid>
      <title>Under tow in the urban market.</title>
      <description>We are starting to see challenges in the urban market that we haven't seen for sometime. The are several challenges arising but I would like to talk about one. Now before I continue let me say this is not true of all products types and areas. This is really project by project depending on when it was marketed, built (or converted) and sold. As a by product of the housing boom in 2005 and all the speculative buying, investors are now upside down in certain developments along with home owners who bought at the peak. These properties most likely will go down the path of a potential foreclosure, short sale or hopefully (for primary homeowners) a loan modification. As far as the foreclosure and short sale properties, owners stop making their payments thus stop making their HOA fee payments (this includes the banks who take the property back). What happens is the HOA delinquencies go beyond the 15% max delinquency rate required by Fannie/Freddie. In return, no bank will loan on the property since they can't sell the loan on the secondary market to Fannie/Freddie thus making the loan illiquid. This in turn causing the problem to exacerbate. For more insight on this challenge, properties that have this issue and more 'under tow' issues, give us a call. Thanks! M.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Tue, 09 Jun 2009 04:54:14 -0700</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1108091/under-tow-in-the-urban-market-</link>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1090551/neighborhoods-are-the-key-to-real-estate-</guid>
      <title>Neighborhoods are the key to real estate.</title>
      <description>We get many inquiries a day from people locally and around the world asking about specific properties that they have seen on-line. This one dimensional view is very misleading since it assumes all things are equal when they are not. I always try to instruct potential buyers to spend time in a community, getting to know the area and neighborhoods before they focus on specific properties. If you don't like your neighborhood, most likely, no matter how much you love the home, you will not be happy. This is a key component of truly working with a buyer. Know what is important to their overall life not just what they like in counter tops. We very much understand the areas and districts, the current trends and future trends, political climate, public initiatives and more. This will truly help the buyer determine which property fits their overall life. Give us a call. Thanks! M.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2009 05:55:21 -0700</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1090551/neighborhoods-are-the-key-to-real-estate-</link>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1085277/don-t-forget--sl-12--</guid>
      <title>Don't forget "SL 12"!</title>
      <description>Many people looking for unique urban infill projects in Scottsdale like the kind you find downtown Phoenix and Tempe will be very impressed with SL 12. This project is a cool, modern 12 unit "U" shaped development just south of the Valley Ho and is only a couple blocks from the heart of Old Town. These units range from 600-2000 sq. ft. and priced from 180-599K. As you know, I'm a fan of the smaller, more unique infill projects for many reasons and this project fulfill's a need in Old Town. Take a look: www.phoenixurbanliving.com/oldtowninfilllofts.html and give me a call. Thanks! M.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2009 05:53:50 -0700</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1085277/don-t-forget--sl-12--</link>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1085253/optima-camelview-getting-very-interesting-</guid>
      <title>Optima Camelview getting very interesting.</title>
      <description>Lately, Optima Camelview has seen the amount of product and pricing pressure accerlate. This is now attracting allot of buyers to the community. Always seen as the 'value' choice in Old Town (how $450 a foot is 'value' is beyond me), it's now becoming a smart move for first time home buyers, empty nesters and second homes. It also has some of the most reasonable HOA's (25 cents per ft) and some of the nicer amenities. If you haven't looked in a while you might want to take another look at Optima Camelview. Take a look at www.phoenixurbanliving.com and give me a call. Thanks, M.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2009 05:29:12 -0700</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1085253/optima-camelview-getting-very-interesting-</link>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1085236/new-pricing-for-portland-38</guid>
      <title>New pricing for Portland 38</title>
      <description>Those of you looking for expressive modern/minimal architecture with high-end finishes but couldn't find anything that fit your price range, well look no further than Portland 38's new pricing. Originally priced from 319-399K, these urban modern rowhomes are now priced from 160-259K. Whether it's the Miele appliances, Ceaserstone counter tops, polished concrete floors, rough cut Fur beamed ceilings, oversized commercial grade windows, etc.. this is a true value. Take a look: www.phoenixurbanliving.com/downtownphoenixinfilllofts.html. Cheers, M.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Thu, 21 May 2009 05:21:36 -0700</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1085236/new-pricing-for-portland-38</link>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1026408/new-becoming-newer----revived-projects-</guid>
      <title>New becoming newer....Revived projects.</title>
      <description>There has been some recent articles highlighting urban projects that have failed and also announcements of receivership, foreclosures and bankruptcy. While these are ugly words and traumatic events to developers, it's a natural progression given our current market. Greedy developers, unrealistic market demand, speculative buyers and poor financing has caused this and it's probably a good thing. Our values did not equate to the product and location. This now will allow new developers to re-concept the product based upon the true fundamentals of the market and it's demand. This will allow these critical projects to survive, thrive and add to the urban community. I applaud those new developers for their ability to see great opportunities and playing a role in the turnaround.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2009 05:26:32 -0700</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1026408/new-becoming-newer----revived-projects-</link>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1026392/we-told-you-so-all-along-----</guid>
      <title>We told you so all along.....</title>
      <description>When looking at some of the positive signs of the real estate recovery there are a couple bright spots. One is the fringe where speculation, mass production of track homes and bad financing caused huge drops in property value and huge increases in foreclosures. This has brought back affordability again but at a sacrifice, distance. The second bright spot has been properties located near the core. The old real estate adage 'location, location, location' has really proved it's merit given the current market conditions. Phoenix zip codes have outperformed all others when it comes to values retained, sales of existing homes (very important) and first time buyers (another very important stat). This supports our niche and purpose. Bring or keep people in the core. Less driving, support locally owned business's, appropriately sized homes, connect with your community and neighbors, etc... I hate to say we told you so but we did. However we would love to help you if you haven't made the move yet as we want you here:).</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2009 05:17:37 -0700</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1026392/we-told-you-so-all-along-----</link>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1026335/trends-in-downtown-phoenix-</guid>
      <title>Trends in downtown Phoenix.</title>
      <description>Currently I've see the market 'come back in' in downtown Phoenix. This began in November and continues today. There has been enough pent-up demand for sometime but until late last year the buyers were too cautious to make a move. Now, post-election and multiple stimulus'sthe buyers 'feel' good about their prospects. I will tell you that feeling rides the tides of news which is still disturbing. During the boom, people were emotional and looked at real estate fromthe heard mentality. Not seem to learning from past examples, people are replicating that same behavior which is really too bad. Most people 'think' they know real estate since it's such a common commodity which it isn't and urban is the most complex. There are amazing opportunities out there and for some product, the time for 'steals' has passed while others still have some clouds on the horizon. There is no longer no light at the end of the tunnel. There is light and it's getting brighter.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2009 05:07:27 -0700</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/1026335/trends-in-downtown-phoenix-</link>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/826587/the-residences-at-2211-camelback-</guid>
      <title>The Residences at 2211 Camelback.</title>
      <description>If your looking for a luxury high-rise in the Biltmore, look no further than 2211. This exquisite building offers a full service of amenities for home owners. Tucked nicely behind Ruth Chris and the adjoining office buildings, 2211 offers many unique floors plans with varying views and light exposure. The roof top pool and lounge area offer a beautiful oasis in the middle of the Biltmore. If you would like to preview, please let me know or view: http://www.phoenixurbanliving.com/biltmorelofts.html. M.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Mon, 08 Dec 2008 04:02:50 -0800</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/826587/the-residences-at-2211-camelback-</link>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/826573/the-fairway-lodge-at-the-biltmore-</guid>
      <title>The Fairway Lodge at the Biltmore.</title>
      <description>I was showing a client some options in the Biltmore a couple weeks ago and we spent some time viewing the The Fairway Lodge at the Biltmore. These luxury apartment condos are the first part of a two phase development (the other phase is Biltmore Estates). This three story luxury flat condo offers views of the mountains, the Biltmore and golf course. This project is perfect for the retired, second home owner who wants to take advantage of the hotels amenities, local shopping and a lock and leave lifetyle. Carol Gant who is an old friend does a wonderful job of presenting this product and project. For more info: http://www.phoenixurbanliving.com/biltmorelofts.html. M.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Mon, 08 Dec 2008 03:56:58 -0800</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/826573/the-fairway-lodge-at-the-biltmore-</link>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/775520/urban-valuations-in-a-changing-market-</guid>
      <title>Urban valuations in a changing market.</title>
      <description>I am constantly discussing urban valuations with my friend, business partner and biggest competitor, Will Daly. The urban trend in Phoenix occurred during a phase of heavy real estate speculation and therefore there is an unrealistic expectation on the amount of demand or what people are willing to pay for unique urban housing. However, there is a solution that can help be the barometer. If you look at mature urban cores usually urban housing is anywhere from $200-$350 per ft. Also, if you look at local buildings that were marketed, built and sold prior to the run up, they can give you a baseline. Apply yearly appreciation and there you go! Many practitioners will try and to make us the exception which isn't exactly correct. We do have some exceptions (The Plaza Lofts and Scottsdale Waterfront) due to location, near by amenities and the vacation like buyer. Otherwise for the most part we are overpriced given the demand and what the true values are. For more information, please contact me to discuss valuations at: http://www.phoenixurbanliving.com/buyersrequest.html</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Wed, 05 Nov 2008 04:21:39 -0800</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/775520/urban-valuations-in-a-changing-market-</link>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/763541/portland-place--possible-new-plans-</guid>
      <title>Portland Place: possible new plans.</title>
      <description>I'm currently working with a client who is considering a purchase at Portland Place in downtown Phoenix. The original scope of the project was three mid-rises (6, 10 and 12 stories). Given the current market condition and standing inventory the developer is considering replacing phase 3 (the 12 story mid-rise) with a boutique hotel. This is understandable and I actually think it help bring additional life and businesses to the area. This is obviously a plan that is fluid given the current market conditions but if you would like to know more about what is available at Portland Place. check out: http://www.phoenixurbanliving.com/downtownphoenixmidrise.html. Cheers, M.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Tue, 28 Oct 2008 08:10:18 -0700</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/763541/portland-place--possible-new-plans-</link>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/763515/scottsdale-waterfront--old-world-charm-in-a-new-world-package-</guid>
      <title>Scottsdale Waterfront: Old world charm in a new world package.</title>
      <description>I was spending time showing Scottsdale Waterfront this morning to a past client and friend. I was reminded of the old world touches they included in the project. From the reclaimed, distressed plank flooring in the club room to the area rug-like carpeting on each floor. The interiors are nicely done. I was also reminded of the limited views in the building. Basically, if your not on the sixth floor or above, you will have compromised views. For more information on available units, check out: http://www.phoenixurbanliving.com/oldtownhighrise.html. Cheers, M.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Tue, 28 Oct 2008 08:03:26 -0700</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/763515/scottsdale-waterfront--old-world-charm-in-a-new-world-package-</link>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/716045/amazing-opportunities-in-a-down-market-</guid>
      <title>Amazing opportunities in a down market.</title>
      <description>Given the current overall economic environment it's not surprising that people are cautious with their money. However, there are plenty of great real estate opportunities that the smart investor is capitalizing on. If you understand the sub-market, you easily identify unique opportunities that are real "steals". Most of the time people are untrustiing of these opportunities or allow their own perception to get in the way of seeing these opportunities. I think most people believe they have a good grasp of real estate since it's such a common commodity and people believe what they want to believe. This undermines most peoples ability to truly see these opportunities. You hire a CPA to get the most for your taxes, you hire a mechanic to repair your car but most think they can 'do' real estate. Most are wrong. Find an agent who has a track record and mentality that fit's your goals and let that person handle guide your search. It could save thousands today and make you tens times that down the road. M.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Tue, 30 Sep 2008 03:57:21 -0700</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/716045/amazing-opportunities-in-a-down-market-</link>
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      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/716025/great-new-rental-option-in-downtown-scottsdale-</guid>
      <title>Great new rental option in downtown Scottsdale.</title>
      <description>If your looking for a large urban condo with excellant finishes and location for a competitive price then look no further than Toll Brothers "The Mark" project. This 'for sale' urban product has recognized the current market and chosen to rent out some of their inventory, allowing renters to apply rent (1/2/) towards the purchase if they chose exercise that right at the end of the lease. This five story midrise is right next door to the Valley Ho and allows you to use their pool, room service, valet and concierge. The building itself is more suburban than urban but does have some extremely nice finishes (Wolf gas range with stainless hood and back splash, GE Profile appliances, granite slab counter tops, huge patios (on some units), mountain views, roof top pool and much more!!. This is one of the lowest per ft rents in any of the new buildings in downtown Scottsdale. M.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Tue, 30 Sep 2008 03:46:33 -0700</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/716025/great-new-rental-option-in-downtown-scottsdale-</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/706808/what-is-the-best-value-</guid>
      <title>What is the best value?</title>
      <description>I have plenty of possible buyers looking for a 'deal' and want to focus on short sales or bank foreclosures. Short sales and bank foreclosures are not a garantee of a good value. Many people are willing to buy at 30% off of asking no matter what asking price really is or what the trends in that subdivision are. Come on people you need to get smarter about your money. You need to look between the lines not just at the discount or that the property is considered distressed. I see how difficult the market is right now and still people are not asking tough questions or looking for strong advisors to help them with their purchase. There are allot of deals to be had but they not apparent to the average buyer or agent. M.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Wed, 24 Sep 2008 03:19:29 -0700</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/706808/what-is-the-best-value-</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/696245/the-summit-at-coppersquare--great-rentals--</guid>
      <title>The Summit at Coppersquare: Great rentals!!</title>
      <description>In the past month I've seen allot of interested renters looking at The Summit at Coppersquare. The building (next door from Chase Field and one block from US Airways Arena) has some amazing amenities which include a negative edge pool on 5th, rooftop patio with gas firepits (great for watching D-Backs fireworks), a very nice gym, etc... Some of the corner units have amazing views of the stadium, city and mountain vistas. For the urban renter there are not much better options for the money. More info: http://www.phoenixurbanliving.com/downtownphoenixhighrise.html</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Wed, 17 Sep 2008 10:32:15 -0700</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/696245/the-summit-at-coppersquare--great-rentals--</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/696237/mezzo--modern-infill-and-a-good-value-</guid>
      <title>Mezzo: Modern Infill and a good value.</title>
      <description>Recently I was privilaged to attend an open house at Mezzo. It was great to see old friends and meet some new ones. More importantly I was able to spend allot of time in each of the ten units and get a better understanding of the design elements and features/finishes from the design and development team. These three story, 1500 sq. ft. modern/urban rowhomes have utilized views, glass, angles and natural elements to create a very unique development in midtown Phoenix. Also, reflecting the current market the developer has priced these gems very competitively (390-420K). Each home includes a organic garden, two car carport and much more...For more information, check out: http://www.phoenixurbanliving.com/midtownphoenixsmall.html</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Wed, 17 Sep 2008 10:26:19 -0700</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/696237/mezzo--modern-infill-and-a-good-value-</link>
    </item>
    <item>
      <guid>https://activerain.com/blogsview/696161/urban-activity-is-ramping-up-</guid>
      <title>Urban activity is ramping up.</title>
      <description>Over the past 60 days the inquiries into urban condos in Phoenix, Tempe and Scottsdale has jumped by almost 300%. This leads me to believe the people that were sitting on the sidelines have realized the opportunity was passing them by. With interest rates very low and plenty of product to choose from, there is a real sense that now is the time to get back into the for a unique urban home. There has been a flurry of activity in Artisan Village, Tapestry on Central, Optima Biltmore and Camelview and Northshore. If your looking to make the move, we know where the best values are. Cheers, M.</description>
      <dc:creator>Michael Fitzpatrick (Phoenix Urban Living)</dc:creator>
      <pubDate>Wed, 17 Sep 2008 09:32:40 -0700</pubDate>
      <link>https://activerain.com/blogsview/696161/urban-activity-is-ramping-up-</link>
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