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Totally Refreshed Mid Century Modern in Phoenix

Joe Janus — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 19:43:00 GMT

This house just came on the market and I'm thinking it's going to sell pretty quickly. It's in a cute mid-century modern neighborhood in Phoenix called Star of Paradise (off Cactus Road and the 51).

The house is so clean you could eat off the floor (ok maybe not!). Almost everything is new...cabinets, stainless steal appliances, Caesertone counters, new carpet and the list goes on. Vaulted ceilings and the open floor plan make it seem bigger than it is at almost 1750 square feet.

Get all the info on this mid century modern home and give me a call if you want to see it!

Joe Janus - Phoenix AZ Homes For Sale

7 Things Every Home Buyer Should Know About Short Sales.

Joe Janus — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 20:03:00 GMT

1. Don't make lowball offers. Every lender has a certain dollar amount they want to net from the sale. Typically first lien holders (lenders) want to net at least 85% of the fair market value of the home. If you lowball, you have a good chance of having your offer rejected and you may not have the opportunity to make a counteroffer.

2. Listing agent experience is crucial. It's up to the listing agent to submit the short sale package, along with your offer, to the bank(s). If this isn't done in a certain way with the right documents from the seller then your offer may not see the light of day.

3. Seller must qualify for short sale. Make sure your agent confirms with the listing agent that the sellers are able to short sell. If the sellers don't have a financial hardship then the short sale has a good chance of not being approved.

4. Don't ask for a home warranty to be paid by the seller. Most lenders will not pay for home warranties.

5. Be prepared to wait. Short sale transactions typically take many months to close escrow. So if you have to be in a home in less than 60 days you may want to pass on short sales.

6. Don't submit offers without proof of funds or a loan approval. You've got to prove that you can buy the home otherwise your offer won't be considered.

7. Most likely the property is being sold AS-IS. However the seller should be able to provide a property disclosure statement. Make sure your agent gets it for you.

I hope this information has given you some insight into buying a short sale. So don't shy away from a home just because it's a short sale...have your agent check into it for you. You could be the next owner!

If you're not already working with an agent, give me a call! I'd be happy to help you.

Joe Janus - Phoenix, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley AZ Homes for Sale

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Why Buyers and Sellers Should Seriously Consider Short Sales

Joe Janus — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 23:47:00 GMT

We’ve all heard the horror stories about short sales but here are just a few of the important advantages that anyone looking to “short sell” a home or buy a short sale MUST be aware of.

•You will be eligible, under Fannie Mae guidelines, to buy another home in 2 years instead of 5 to 7 years.

•If your credit report does not reflect a 60-day+ late pay, under Fannie Mae guidelines, you will be eligible to buy another home immediately.

Fannie Mae Mortgage Eligibility (Primary Residence):

•A homeowner who loses a home to foreclosure is ineligible for a Fannie Mae backed mortgage for a period of 5 years.
•A homeowner who successfully negotiates and closes a short sale will be eligible for a Fannie Mae backed mortgage after 2 years

Fannie Mae Mortgage Eligibility (Non-Primary Residence):
•An Investor who allows a property to go to foreclosure is ineligible for a Fannie Mae backed investment mortgage for a period of 7 years
•An investor who successfully negotiates and closes a short sale will be eligible for a Fannie Mae backed investment mortgage after 2 years.

Future Loan with any Mortgage Company:
•On any future loan application, a prospective borrower will have to answer YES to question C in Section VII of the standard 1003 that asks “Have you had property foreclosed upon or given title or deed in lieu thereof of the last 7 years?” This will affect future rates.
•There is no similar declaration or question regarding a short sale.

Impact to Credit Score:
•Score may be lowered severely due to a foreclosure. Typically will affect score for over 3 years.
•Only late payments on mortgage will be reported as paid or negotiated. This may have less of an impact on a credit score, if all other payments are being made.

Credit History:
•Foreclosure will remain as a public record on a person’s credit history for 10 years or more severely impacting your credit score.

Current Employment:
•Employers have the right and are actively checking the credit regularly of all employees who are in sensitive positions. A foreclosure, in some cases, can be grounds for immediate reassignment or termination.
•Short Sale is not reported on a credit report and is, therefore, not a challenge to employment.

Future Employment:
•Many employers are requiring credit checks on all job applicants. A foreclosure is one of the most detrimental credit items an applicant can have and it may challenge employment.
•Short sale is not reported on a credit report and is therefore not a challenge to employment.

Deficiency Judgment:
•In 100% of foreclosures (except in those states where there is no deficiency), the bank has the right to pursue a deficiency judgment.
•In some successful short sales, it is possible to convince the lender to give up the right pursue deficiency judgment against the homeowner.

Deficiency Judgment (amount):
•In a foreclosure, the home will have to go through an REO process if it does not sell at auction. In most cases, this will result in a lower sales price and longer time to sell in a declining market. This will result in higher possible deficiency judgment
•In a properly managed short sale, the home is sold at a price that should be close to market value and may be better than a Foreclosure sale resulting in a lower deficiency.

Buyer Advantages
1. Homes sold under short sale terms are usually owner-occupied. Normally, these homes are more likely to be maintained in better condition than a foreclosed home. Not all sellers are behind in payments. There are other considerations that may occur which has necessitated the need for the homeowner to sell.

2. A short sale may provide you with the opportunity to purchase the “perfect” home for you. If you are looking for particular features in a home or a particular neighborhood, purchasing a home via the short sale process may provide you with a unique opportunity.

3. The bank may agree to sell the home for less than the current market value, which has already been depressed by the number of foreclosures on the market.

4. Buying a home via a short sale means that you (the buyer) should receive all required property disclosures from the seller as required by law. Homes sold through the foreclosure process do not offer this advantage. A lender cannot be required to give the same disclosures as a seller because the lender has never occupied the property and therefore has no first-hand knowledge of property conditions, etc.

Navigating the waters of a short sale is a tricky and time consuming process but more and more homes are closing escrow when they're done correctly.

Feel free to call on me if you have questions about short selling your home or buying a short sale. I'd be happy to help. My phone number is 602-620-6267.

*The above data is believed to be accurate but is not guaranteed. Appropriate legal counsel and tax expertise should be obtained before proceeding with a short sale.

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Considering A Short Sale? Here Are Some Pitfalls You Must Be Aware Of!

Joe Janus — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 16:00:00 GMT

1. Property is Priced Incorrectly

PITFALL: This is the most common mistake made with all properties and the most common reason a listing expires and a property doesn’t sell.

SOLUTION: The right agent will go through a detailed listing price strategy with you that will allow you to see exactly where your property should be priced based on it current condition, sales in your area and most importantly how much time you have left to sell.

2. The Short Sale Proposal is Incomplete

PITFALL: This is one of the most common reasons why a short sale does not get approved. Most agents do not understand the short sale process and what your lender will be looking for.

SOLUTION: An experienced agent understands this process in detail and will work with you to present a complete and cohesive proposal to your lender.

3. Inadequate Follow Up and Communication

PITFALL: If your agent does not follow up with everyone involved as your short sale goes through each threshold or step in this process you may not know that your file has been delayed and you again may run out of time.

SOLUTION: The right agent knows exactly how to follow up to ensure that your lenders issues are addressed in a timely manner and will make certain you do not have unnecessary delays.

4. Not Enough Time

PITFALL: It is critical that your agent understand the foreclosure laws in your area. They should be able to show you an estimated timeline. They should also know how to communicate with your lender and what to provide that in some cases can stall your foreclosure for weeks or months in order to let you negotiate a sale.

SOLUTION: Make sure you provide your agent accurate information as to exactly how many payments you have missed and any correspondence you have received from your lender. This will allow your agent to understand your situation and work to improve it.

5. Your Deal is Not Submitted Properly

If you do not follow the directions you receive for submission then you are expecting an over-worked, under-staffed department to go out of their way to handle your file. There is very little likelihood of this happening. If you are instructed to fax your file, fax it and send a backup copy in the mail. If you are instructed to mail two copies, mail two copies. Once you have a contract, have gathered your information and completed your proposal you do not want your deal to fall apart because no one sees it.

6. The Buyer’s Offer is Too Low

PITFALL: Many agents will encourage you to submit any offer they get. The reality is that short sale is not the same as a fire sale! In order to have a legitimate chance at getting your deal approved you must have an offer that is more attractive to the lender than a foreclosure.

SOLUTION: The right agent will work with you to properly negotiate any offer that you receive to get ‘highest and best’ from each buyer so you are presenting the best solution possible to your lender.

7. The Buyer’s Contract is Not Strong Enough

PITFALL: In today’s economic climate, just because a buyer is willing to make an offer on a property does not mean that they are truly qualified to purchase. The reality is that a buyer needs to be preapproved for financing, closing funds need to be verified and their ability to buy needs to be confirmed.

SOLUTION: An experienced agent is familiar with the details of exactly what must be verified in order to qualify a buyer to submit an offer on your property that has a chance at closing. Don’t risk this process with an uneducated agent who does not have these answers.

Don't risk your financial future and the potential sale of your home with an agent who doesn't have all the solutions, call me at 602-620-6267 or send an email today.

Joe Janus: Phoenix Real Estate Agent

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Stunning Hillside Contemporary Home in Paradise Valley Arizona

Joe Janus — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 21:14:00 GMT

Exquisitely located in the heart of Paradise Valley, this one of a kind contemporary home for sale in Paradise Valley, Arizona, is quite an event in itself, just to be within. Relish in the serene beauty of the 40 foot waterfall upon entering the property. Experience the dramatic sweeping views of both Camelback and Mummy Mountains. City lights glaze at night from this comfortable contemporary completely remodeled in 2006. Walls of glass provide views from every room with flawless finishes and attention to the finest detail. Highlights of this incredible property include Poggenpohl wood cabinetry and premium stainless appliances in a kitchen suitable for a gourmet chef, granite counter tops and artistic glass tile throughout. The luxurious master suite includes a sitting room with million dollar views and a spa-like bathroom. An entertainers dream, the home automation/audio visual system will amaze you and your guests with features, simplicity & functionality. Additional features include fire-n-ice fireplaces, wet bars, expansive view decks, patios & dramatic negative edge salt water pool and spa that appear to float above the city. The one of a kind features, comforts & design elements throughout this home are perfect for the contemporary enthusiast.

For more informaton, photos or to schedule a private tour go to: Paradise Valley Homes for Sale. As of this writing, the home is listed at $2,750,000.

Joe Janus - Phoenix, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley AZ Homes for Sale

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Luxury Bank Owned Contemporary Property in Paradise Valley

Joe Janus — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 23:01:00 GMT

Unique unto its own, this massive custom contemporary home screams ‘Luxury’ from the moment one lays eyes on it from the street. At 6524 E Malcomb Drive in Paradise Valley, Arizona, this bank owned new build is literally move in ready. The one acre+ lot chosen for this house bodes million dollar views of Camelback Mountain, Mummy Mountain and even the McDowell Mountain Preserve in North Scottsdale.

Nearly 10,000 square feet with 18x18 natural slate floors, stone, block and brick walls, gorgeous wood stairs with modern metal hand rail staircases and large floor to ceiling glass windows, all work very well together in a unique manner leaving one feeling of balance and a natural flow aesthetically. Upon entering the estate through the large custom built steel and opaque glass double doors, the great room <and I mean great GREAT room> is an entertainers dream. This great room bodes ceilings upwards of 18 feet high of custom block, and brick, and a massive fireplace with a face about 5 feet high and 8 feet wide… something Santa would have NO problem getting through this Christmas season!

The huge kitchen would even make Emeril or Martha green with envy. Fit for any gourmet chef, this kitchen set up with granite everything and God knows HOW much upgraded cherry wood cabinet space holds top of the line Viking appliances. My favorites… the Viking 6 burner gas stove/convection oven and the biggest stainless steel Viking double door refrigerator I have ever seen. Being a professional amateur chef myself, I was drooling standing within the confines of this dream boat and dreaming of a Holiday party of the century. The large lofts upstairs on east and west ends of the home could be easily utilized as a functional office or work space, game room, personal gym or even turned into an entertainment/movie theater.

One thing I really enjoyed about the design of this contemporary house, was the fact that each of the 4 bedrooms, and all of the 7 baths were designed completely different from each other. Each of the four bedrooms had a completely different modern style, starting with top of the line carpets, all of different fashionable colors with gorgeous patterns. Every bedroom is a suite unto itself with HUGE walk-in closets and a uniquely styled attached bathroom with again, completely unique and gorgeous custom tile work. The large 23x23 master bedroom with what seemed like an equally as large separate his/hers closet space, all on the way to the mother of all master bathrooms… wow. It was again, gorgeously designed with custom tile throughout, with his/hers back to back vanities and a master shower with enough shower heads up and down the tiled shower walls, and raining shower heads within the shower ceiling, rivaling any of the local neighboring Scottsdale/Paradise Valley 5 star spas that this area is famous for.

The entire home is pre-wired for surround sound and networked wiring throughout the multiple rooms. The 6 car garage is a luxury car enthusiasts dream.

The only downside (if one could find a downside) would be that the landscaping has yet to be untouched in the back of the property. I, however, tend to view this as a blank slate with which one can add ones’ own personal touch with a fabulous pool/Jacuzzi/ rose garden/ tennis court/ etc! The obvious quality of the build, the modern contemporary style combined with the sought after luxurious location in the heart of Phoenix, makes this home a real deal for those adept in this luxury price range, at $2,495,000 or $252 per square foot.

Joe Janus - Phoenix, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley AZ Homes for Sale

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It’s Official… Obama Signed the Extension and Expansion of the Tax Credit Bill.

Joe Janus — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 22:31:00 GMT

On Weds, Nov 4th, 2009, Congress nearly voted unanimously for The Unemployment Compensation Extension Act which included an amendment that extends and expands the Home Buyers Tax Credit. President Obama signed the bill today, Friday, November 06, 2009, setting it into effect.

So, here’s the deal…

The original tax credit of $8,000 which was to expire on November 30th, was available to first time homebuyers (defined as an individual who has not owned a home within the last 3 years).

The new bill centers on extending the popular $8,000 credit for first-time homebuyers that was included in the stimulus package. The credit will be available through next June as long as the buyer signs a binding contract by the end of April 2010. It also increased the income limits from $75,000 for an individual and $150,000 for a married couple, to $125,000 and $225,000 respectively.

The program has also been expanded to include a $6,500 tax credit for existing homeowners who buy a new place after living in their current residence for at least five years.

Remember, this is a tax credit. This means that if a first time home buyer were to expect a tax refund of, say, $1000, they would actually receive a tax refund of $9,000. The extension for the first time home buyers, along with the inclusion of the tax credit to existing homeowners will hopefully incent more people to dive into the Phoenix real estate market again.

If you have questions feel free to contact me at 602-620-6267 or via email. You can also download a one page breakdown of the tax credit provisions and frequently asked questions.

Joe Janus - Phoenix, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley AZ Home for Sale

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What's Going On In Zip 85016? (the Biltmore Area)

Joe Janus — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 21:48:00 GMT

ZIP code 85016 comprises a 10 square mile area of Northeast Phoenix. Another one of my favorite zip codes in the city due to its location to central Phoenix activities, light rail, amazing shopping at the Biltmore and Scottsdale Fashion Square, and outdoor activities with nearby Camelback Mountain, Picacho Peak and Dreamy Draw mountain reserves!

It lies between Thomas Road in the south and Phoenix Mountains Park in the north. The western boundary runs along 16th Street and the eastern boundary runs north along 32nd Street until it hits Lincoln Drive. From this point north the eastern boundary runs just west of 40th Street. It lies north of ZIP codes 85004 and 85008, with ZIP code 85014 to the west and 85018 and 85253 to the east. ZIP codes 85020 and 85028 lie to the north.

85016 includes the Biltmore district, Camelback Colonnade, Town & Country Shopping Center, Camelback Esplanade, Los Olivos Park, Biltmore Fashion Park, Granada Park, Desert Storm Park, Arizona Biltmore Golf Course, and the southern section of the Phoenix Mountains Park.

It seems as though we may see an increase in November ’09 due to the much higher number of pending sales holding this month compared to last. With a lower pricing average, which very well could be directly related to the number of pre-foreclosures in this area (20%), we may see a trend in upward advancement of purchases in the next coming months. All in all, change in this zip code isn’t all that drastic and seems to be holding steady (relatively speaking).

With the Tax Credit of $8,000 for first time home buyers (those who haven’t owned a home in the last 3 years) and the tax benefits in deducting mortgage interest, the lower housing pricing, the amount of inventory available along with the extremely low mortgage rates, now is still certainly a great time for anyone even thinking about the possibility of becoming a home owner to take it one step further and let’s start looking. Even those of you who have been thinking that you may want to upgrade, an upgrade in today’s market is relatively easy to find.

- Active Listings for October '09 - 197, down from 198 in September '09
- Listings holding Pending Sales rose to 52 for October '09, up from 41 in September '09
- Closed sales are down for the month of October '09 so far at 23 with an average of 66 days on the market, down from 36 in September '09, with an average of 154 days on the market
- Days on Market for Active Listings are up a stitch for the month of October '09 at 190 from 181 in September '09
- 20% of the total active listings are pre-foreclosures
- 11% of the total active listings are lender owned properties
- Annual Appreciation dropped a stitch in October '09 to -42% from -39% in September of '09.

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Ralph Haver Mid Century Modern in Phoenix's Windemer Neighborhood

Joe Janus — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 22:25:00 GMT

Stunningly renovated, this mid-century modern classic, 3 bedroom/2 bath/ 1612 sq ft home built in 1955 by renowned valley architect, Ralph Haver, is located in one of my favorite communities in Phoenix, a most sought after Haver neighborhood of Windemere, in the Arcadia area. Arcadia, also recognized for its top-notch schools is a prime location in East/Central Phoenix near high end shopping such as the Arizona Biltmore and Scottsdale Fashion Square while being in close proximity to major freeways. Prized by designers and do it yourselfers alike, Haver homes are known for their simplicity and integrity. The blending of the low sloped roof with the ceiling beams create rich proportion aesthetically. Wide open spaces coupled with walls of glass bring about a natural, relaxing flow within the living quarters. This home boasts of gorgeously stained concrete floors, spa like bathroom finishes, an outdoor shower, 800 square feet of redwood decking and a 6 foot offset pivot glass door to the pool area and lushly landscaped backyard. This move-in ready, beautifully rich home is perfect for entertaining family and friends with surround sound throughout and multiple destinations for outdoor dining.

This house is currently listed at $338,000 and you can find all the photos and data right here. Or call me on 602-620-6267.

Joe Janus - Phoenix, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley AZ Homes for Sale

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What's going on With Paradise Valley AZ. Real Estate?

Joe Janus — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 20:26:00 GMT

For those interested in Paradise Valley Real Estate, ZIP code 85253 comprises a 17 square mile area encompassing the town of Paradise Valley and a few adjacent sections of the cities of Phoenix and Scottsdale. The boundaries of Paradise Valley and ZIP code 85253 coincide for long stretches but deviate at the northern and eastern extremities. It mainly lies north of Chaparral Road and south of Shea Boulevard. The western boundary is complex but runs along 32nd Street and Tatum Boulevard for much of its length. The eastern boundary runs along Scottsdale Road.

It includes Paradise Valley Country Club, the northern parts of Echo Canyon Park, Marriott's Mountain Shadows Resort and Golf Club, McCormick Park, Camelback Golf Course and the Borgata of Scottsdale.

- Active Listings for August '09 - 488, down from 514 in July '09
- Listings holding Pending Sales dropped to 27 for August '09, down from 30 in July '09
- Closed sales are up for the month of August '09 at 26 with an average of 368 days on the market, from 24 in July '09, with an average of 269 days on the market
- Average Price for the month of August '09 is up at $2,338,000K from $1,831,000 in July '09
- Days on Market for Active Listings are up a stitch for the month of August '09 at 296 from 291 in July '09
- 11% of the total active listings are pre-foreclosures
- 3% of the total active listings are lender owned properties
- Annual Appreciation came up in August '09 to -21% from -25% in July of '09.

For a more extensive report on the Paradise Valley Real Estate market and areas of Phoenix and Scottsdale checkout these detailed reports.

Joe Janus - Paradise Valley homes for sale

Here's a Quick Snapshot of Scottsdale Real Estate Activity (zip code 85258)

Joe Janus — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 14:18:00 GMT

One of my favorite zip codes when it comes to Scottsdale homes for sale, 85258, comprises an area of North Scottsdale stretching from Indian Bend Road in the south to Shea Boulevard in the north. The western boundary is Scottsdale Road and the eastern boundary runs along highway 101 and the Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community until it reaches ZIP code 85259.

This ZIP code includes Pavilion Lakes Golf Club, Lake Margherite, Lake Nino, Lake Angela, Rotary Park, Comanche Park, Shoshone Park, Zuni Park, Scottsdale Healthcare-Shea, Scottsdale Ranch, Gainey Ranch, Mountain View Park, McCormick Ranch, Camelback Lake, Lake Serena and the northern section of the Scottsdale Pavilions shopping center.

- Active Listings for August '09 - 248, down from 251 in July '09
- Listings holding Pending Sales hold steady at 29 for both August and July '09
- Closed sales are down for the month of August '09 at 18 from 27 in July '09, with an average of 151 days on the market
- Average Price for the month of August '09 is down at $467K from $584 in July '09
- Days on Market for Active Listings are down a stitch for the month of August '09 at 182 from 185 in July '09
- 14% of the total active listings are pre-foreclosures (short sales)
- 3% of the total active listings are lender owned properties
- Appreciation came up in August '09 to -18% from -19% in July of '09.

Joe Janus - Scottsdale Homes for Sale

Median Home Prices Across the Metro Phoenix Area

Joe Janus — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 02:07:00 GMT

On August 20th, 2009 journalist J. Craig Anderson with The Arizona Republic reported that after a record breaking 27 months of decline in the Valley's median home price, some of the most influential local real-state analysts predict that home values finally have hit the bottom of the slide. According to the most recent 3 month trend, most areas around the Valley seem to be leveling out, rather than what has become the norm of the downward spiral. Great news!

The following figures were obtained from The Cromford Report, and report the annual median home prices (single family residences only) as of August 2009 in the following zip codes:

Phoenix 85016 - $168,000
Phoenix - Arcadia District - 85018 - $334,900
South Scottsdale - Old Town - 85251 - $242,000
Paradise Valley - 85253 - $1,500,000
Scottsdale - 85254 - $315,000
Scottsdale - 85255 - $579,900
Scottsdale - Gainey/McCormick Ranch - 85258 - $460,000

Annual median home prices by city overall:

Phoenix - $89,900 < $37,600 LESS than the median prices in 2002! >
Scottsdale - $411,750
Tempe - $212,500
Mesa - $140,000
Chandler - $218,000
Paradise Valley - $1,500,000

Given the recent 2 year downtrend in the Valley's home prices, most of us know of family and friends who have lost most, if not all of their equity, along with the rising number of folks who lost their homes altogether. In spite of what seems to be such a slew of negativity, a first time home buyer (defined as one who has not owned a home in the last 3 years) purchasing a home now and closing before December 1st, 2009, will benefit from the governments tax credit of up to $8,000, not to mention the extremely low prices and mass of inventory out there!

Before you start your search of Phoenix homes for sale, please contact me and let's chat about your situation and let me help you.

Joe Janus, Phoenix/Scottsdale and Paradise Valley AZ. Homes for Sale

The 7 Most Dangerous Short Sale Myths

Joe Janus — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 19:26:00 GMT

A short sale can be an excellent solution for a homeowner who owes more on their home than what it is worth and has to sell. Unfortunately a number of myths about short sales have developed and it is important you understand the reality of this process if this is a solution that you feel meets your current needs.

1. Short Sales are Impossible and Never Get Approved - Nothing could be further from the truth!

• Are short sales more difficult? Yes.

• Do you need to learn a new process? Yes.

• Are they impossible? No, No, No!

2. Banks are Not Accepting Short Sales; They are Waiting on a Bailout - Really? You may have heard this; the reality is that banks (and the government) are trying to do anything they can, within reason, to avoid foreclosing on property. To think that they would deny a Short Sale in hopes that some future legislation will pass and pay them for their loss is preposterous.

3. You Must be Behind in on your Mortgage in Order to Negotiate a Short Sale - While it is true that initially some lenders wanted you to be in default (missed a payment) before they were willing to consider a short sale – this trend has almost all together reversed.

Today, lenders are looking for verifiable hardship, monthly cash flow shortfall or pending shortfall and insolvency. If you meet these three requirements and are in a position where you will soon not be able to afford your mortgage, act now! Don’t wait until the countdown clock to foreclosure has started and you have even less time left.

4. Buyers are Not Interested in Short Sales and Avoid Them - This is a myth that potential sellers hear all the time – thankfully the reality is that today it is not. In fact many agents are getting calls from buyers who say “I only want to look at foreclosures and Short Sales!”

Short Sales and Foreclosures have become synonymous – not with issues – but with GOOD DEALS. International buyers specifically are interested in these properties.

5. Listing my Home as a Short Sale is an Embarrassment - It is understandable that you may have reservations about letting the world know that you owe more on your home than it is worth however, understand that according to recent estimates, 1 out of 5 homeowners in the US is in your exact situation.

You are to be congratulated for admitting you need help, taking action, and finding a professional who can work with you towards a solution.
With 40 to 60% of the sales in the US predicted to be Short Sales or foreclosures you are not alone!

6. The Bank Would Rather Foreclose than Bother with a Short Sale - We know you have heard this; you may have even heard it from an overzealous collections agent working for a lender.

The reality is that banks do not want to foreclose on your property. Banks, investors and event the federal government have all publicly said that if a person is qualified for a short sale the deal needs to be considered.

The qualifications are:

A. Financial Hardship – There is a situation that is causing you to have trouble affording your mortgage.

B. Monthly Income Shortfall – You have more month than money! A lender will want to see that you cannot afford or will not be able to afford your mortgage soon.

C. Insolvency – The lender will want to see that you do not have significant liquid assets that would allow you to pay down your mortgage.

7. There is not Enough Time to Negotiate a Short Sale Before My Foreclosure - This is a myth that probably hurts homeowners the most. Many don’t realize that foreclosure is a process and there is time.

The foreclosing party (in most cases a lender) can stall a foreclosure up to the final day of the process. These days many lenders will stall a foreclosure with as little as a phone call from you letting them know that you are trying to sell. Almost all lenders will stall a foreclosure with a legitimate contract, in our view there is time until the foreclosure process is complete.

If you’re a seller or buyer and have questions about short sales or foreclosures please email me at joe@joejanus.com or call me on 602-620-6267. Architecturally distinctive homes for sale in Phoenix, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley, AZ.

Check out www.JoeJanus.com to search the entire Phoenix area MLS and get market trend reports, detailed neighborhood information and other resources.

Ins And Outs of The $8,000 Home Buyer Tax Credit

Joe Janus — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 19:51:00 GMT

Want to know more about the $8,000 homebuyer tax credit? Well, here are the main points of the credit along with a website you can go to for more details.

Who is Eligible
• The $8,000 tax credit is available for first-time home buyers only.
• The law defines a first-time home buyer as a buyer who has not owned a home during the past three years.
All U.S. citizens who file taxes are eligible to participate in the program.

Income Limits
• Home buyers who file as single or head-of-household taxpayers can claim the full $8,000 credit if their modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) is less than $75,000.
• For married couples filing a joint return, the income limit doubles to $150,000.
• Single or head-of-household taxpayers who earn between $75,000 and $95,000 are eligible to receive a partial first-time home buyer tax credit.
• Married couples who earn between $150,000 and $170,000 are eligible to receive a partial first-time home buyer tax credit.
The credit is not available for single taxpayers whose MAGI is greater than $95,000 and married couples with an MAGI that exceeds $170,000.

Effective Dates for the Tax Credit
First-time home buyers would receive a $8,000 tax credit for the purchase of any home on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009. To qualify, you must actually close on the sale of the home during this period.

Tax Credit is Refundable ***This is a good thing***
• A refundable credit means that if you pay less than $8,000 in federal income taxes, then the government will write you a check for the difference.
• For example, if you owe $5,000 in federal income taxes, you would pay nothing to the IRS and receive a $3,000 payment from the government.
• If you are due to receive a $1,000 tax refund from the government, your refund would grow to
$9,000 ($1,000 plus $8,000 from the home buyer tax credit).
You are allowed to claim the credit for a purchase in 2009 on your 2008 tax returns. Consult your tax preparer.

Types of Homes that Qualify for the Tax Credit
All homes, whether single-family, townhomes or condominium apartments will qualify, provided that the home will be used as a principal residence and the buyer has not owned a home in the prior three years. This also includes newly-constructed homes.
For more details on the tax credit, go to www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com

Joe Janus – Phoenix Homes for Sale

Buyer Should Beware of New Appraisal Law

Joe Janus — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 13:24:00 GMT

At the start of what seems to be a great season for house-hunters, a new law has created difficulties for home buyers, their Realtors and other real estate professionals in an already beleaguered market.

The Home Valuation Code of Conduct, or HVCC, became law May 1. In the details of the law, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, quasi-government institutions and purchasers of most mortgages, won’t provide funds for mortgage loans unless the appraisal follows a few new guidelines.

One of the main rules prohibits mortgage brokers from ordering appraisals directly from, or having any contact with, a licensed real estate appraiser. This includes approaching them with relevant information. Instead, lenders are required to use third-party “appraisal management” companies that oversee the appraisal and any communication.

One of the largest problems this has created is when a loan officer improperly qualifies the buyer or runs into a new underwriting rule that declines their loan. Previously, the loan could be repackaged and sent to a new source without delay or ordering a new appraisal. Under the new law, appraisals are captive to the lending source, cannot be transferred, therefore a second appraisal fee must be paid by the buyer, or a third, if the loan is especially difficult to place.

Other problems this law has created in the current real estate market are:

• The value of a house is a mystery until the appraisal is received; checking with another appraiser ahead of time has proven to be no guarantee value will be met.

• Valuation may come in low due to out-of-area appraisers being unfamiliar with local market activity. They may not have the expertise or understand how to properly evaluate in Nevada County, creating delay for escrows.

• In some cases, appraisal assignments are given on a “first come, first served” basis, replacing professional expertise with the ability to be first to reply to an appraisal request. This sets the bar of professionalism very low.

• The rebuttal process is cumbersome and inefficient, creating more delay to escrows

and frustration for everyone involved.

Pre-approval for loan

If you are looking for a home, the best insurance you have today is making sure you are properly qualified by your loan officer before you go look for a home. How do you know? Just ask to see your approval. Make sure to discuss this law with them.

If you are a loan officer or lender, the best assurance you can provide to your clients and their Realtor is to make sure they are accurately approved for their purchase well before they start to look for a home. Your insistence that they are properly approved won’t burst their bubble — it will enhance their overall experience.

This article is written by Jeff Kuns the owner of Mortgage Advisors Group, a mortgage lender in Nevada City, and co-author of the book, “Borrow Smart, Retire Rich.”

Joe Janus - Phoenix homes for sale

Historic Spanish Colonial Home for Sale in Phoenix’s Encanto-Palmcroft District Tops the Charts for Livability AND Aesthetic Panache

Joe Janus — Thu, 07 May 2009 03:37:00 GMT

Built in 1931 for Lynn M. Laney, Maricopa County Attorney from 1917 to 1921, this brick-and-concrete home for sale in Phoenix truly evokes the Spanish Colonial Revival period from which it emerged. The ever-pleasing home style was minted by the 1915 Panama-California Exposition—a “fantasy city” built primarily using Spanish Colonial architecture—in Balboa Park, a shameless promotion of San Diego’s brand new direct line to New York via the Panama Canal. The classically European mixed so well with earthy local elements, it’s no wonder San Diego and the surrounding population quickly said si, si, si to arched windows and doors against smooth, flat walls; cantilevered, timber-framed balconies; and rounded, terra cotta tiles on the roof. Around the front door of this Encanto-Palmcroft example is a marvelous rendition of cast concrete emulating a stone archway with a scalloped apex; mature, well-placed trees and green lawns complete a perfect picture reminiscent of the tiny Spanish town San Diego once was.

With three bedrooms (one currently fitted with homemade shelves as an office), three bathrooms, living room with vaulted, beamed ceilings, family room, dining room and basement spread over 3,600 square feet, residents have no problem spreading out. Or feeling right at home whether relaxing in front of the beautiful living-room fireplace, entertaining in the formal, windowed dining room with handy wet bar, or bobbing in the exquisitely designed and landscaped salt-water Paddock pool and spa.

The newly renovated kitchen could star on the Food Network, and the equally fresh bathrooms in House Beautiful with their chic custom cabinetry, modern fixtures and retrospective designs. As part of the thoughtful, loving process of remodeling over the last several years, the wiring, plumbing, and heater/air were updated in 2005. Tile and wood flooring, French doors everywhere, architectural niches and stained glass are only some of the details finishing off the grand effect, the rich aesthetic immersion one gets in or around this fabulous home for sale in Phoenix right now.

The home is being offered at $1,600,000 as of the date of this post. Click Phoenix home for sale for the photos and description or call me on 602-620-6267. I'd be happy to show it to you.

Do you like to do your own reseach? Then search the entire Phoenix MLS by using my enhanced MLS search tool.

Like to see a portfolio focused on a particular neighborhood, style of home, architect or other criteria or just don't have time to search? Let me do the searching for you.

Joe Janus - Phoenix Real Estate

Contemporary Palace on Camelback Mountain

Joe Janus — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 17:30:00 GMT

If you could design a 10,000-square-foot home with everything you ever wanted, what would it have? Great views from every room—of course!—let’s put it on the side of Camelback Mountain. Fireplaces in the panoramic living room, the multi-leveled master bedroom, and outdoor patio/living room, which also has its own kitchen and barbecue. Four more bedrooms, that are like master bedrooms in any other home, and at least half a dozen baths. An exercise/sauna room—that goes without saying: throw in a rock-climbing wall! A heated pool—make it a cantilevered infinity pool that’s part of the homes’ architectural design—and a sunken Jacuzzi. Oh, and let’s have waterfalls everywhere—on the front elevation, the courtyard entry, off the kitchen patio, and next to the putting and chipping greens. We need a vast, well-appointed kitchen and caterer’s kitchen. A guest suite with separate entrance which can also be secured from the main house, an office, a home theater for 16 people, and rooftop deck with a firepit. Get the idea? Everything you’ve ever dreamed of and more, fantastically arranged in a dramatic Contemporary palace whose creative design, contrasting modern contours and flowing natural materials, fully matches its spatial grandeur. Inside, elegant comfort is framed by the gorgeous, quiet outdoors. Outside, rust and sand finishes mix strikingly with the green and slate colors of the daytime mountainside, as well as the purple and auburn of the evening light. You’ve imagined it, but you still have to see it to believe.

The home is being offered at $9,400,000 as of the date of this post. Click Phoenix contemporary home for sale for the virtual tour, photos and description or call me on 602-620-6267. I'd be happy to help.

Like to quickly search over 50,000 Metro Phoenix homes for sale? Go to Phoenix MLS listings.
Like to see a portfolio focused on a particular neighborhood, style of home, architect or other criteria or just don't have time to search? Let me do the searching for you.

Joe Janus - Phoenix Real Estate

Arizona Country Club Mid-century Modern: An Exceptional Opportunity For Sale in Phoenix

Joe Janus — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 02:25:00 GMT

If you’re fond of the popular but hard-to-find Mid-century Modern you’re in for a treat.

True to the architectural spirit of its time, this 1962 Mid-century Modern for sale in Phoenix is a home with exceptional livability. That goes for the open, spacious flow that handily accommodates both small and larger families, as well as the aesthetic canvas that ably backs up nearly any style of decorative touch: classic, eclectic; minimalist or chaos-loving; feng shui or coup d’etat. Remember that the Mid-century Modern was a direct offshoot of the International or Bauhaus style, which celebrated the simple, clean elements of geometry over the busy embellishments of the Victorian or Greek Revival, and with a touch of Frank Lloyd Wright’s love of organic materials to boot. Those older styles were all about the house; the modern styles made it about the inhabitants—their comfort, their enjoyment of the earthly hours.

Other aspects of this Phoenix house for sale that are pretty coveted but pretty rare include:
• Location: It’s in the Arizona Country Club neighborhood, between 56th and 64th Streets and Thomas and Indian School, just a couple of blocks from the golf course itself.
• Structural niceties: Hardwood floors, a fireplace, vaulted ceilings, dual pane windows, a steel roof, skylights with retractable shades.
• Up-to-datedness: Recent kitchen and bathroom renovation with new tiling, Meile and Bosch appliances and 9-foot European birch kitchen cabinets.

Pool, tasteful and well-kept desert landscaping, and expansive, inviting porches all at no extra charge. There are many more things worth mentioning. Give yourself a treat: discover them for yourself!

The home is being offered at $739,000 as of the date of this post. Click Phoenix contemporary home for sale for the virtual tour, photos and description or call me on 602-620-6267 with questions.
Like to quickly search over 50,000 Metro Phoenix homes for sale? Go to Phoenix MLS listings.
Like to see a portfolio focused on a particular neighborhood, style of home, architect or other criteria or just don't have time to search? Let me do the searching for you.

Joe Janus - Phoenix Real Estate

Ultimate Contemporary Home for Sale in Phoenix

Joe Janus — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 04:08:00 GMT

Welcome to the perfect example of what makes vintage Contemporary architecture so wonderful, and why you should be excited when you find a such a flawless Contemporary home for sale in Phoenix. An open floor plan (over 2,000 square feet of it in this case) and natural materials that blend the home with its surrounding landscape. Vaulted ceilings with exposed beams and wood slats (a modern take on the vigas and latillas of Spanish and Santa Fe homes, adding a tidier but no less pleasing textural accent). And best of all, expansive, floor-to-ceiling windows that convey the natural light indoors and frame the spectacular mountain and city views as part of the elegant decor. Not to mention the views of the house itself, both inside and outside, everywhere you look a pleasing composition in a larger, complex but harmonious master work of art.

Designed by the celebrated architect Harold Ekman in 1950, when this was a brand new Contemporary home for sale it was the first one on Camelback Mountain’s western slope. From 1996 to 2005, the current owners have been busy updating, upgrading, and restoring the plumbing, roof, stained concrete flooring, heating and cooling, kitchen, bathrooms, and the lovely geometric pool with multi-level decks.

Three bedrooms and 3 bathrooms make a good-size family home but there’s plenty of room for adding on in the .77-acre lot. And it’s in a cul-de-sac so traffic is truly at a minimum. Other pluses include skylights, a breakfast nook, a stunning kitchen with a pantry and an island, three fireplaces (living room, master bedroom, and patio), a jet tub in the master bathroom, an outdoor dining ramada and two-car garage. And a charm that just gets better and better.

The home is being offered at $1,200,000 as of the date of this post. Click Phoenix contemporary home for sale for the virtual tour, photos and description or call me on 602-620-6267 with questions.

Like to quickly search over 50,000 Metro Phoenix homes for sale? Go to Phoenix MLS listings.

Like to see a portfolio focused on a particular neighborhood, style of home, architect or other criteria or just don't have time to search? Let me find your home for you.

Joe Janus - Phoenix Real Estate

A Dream Home in a Dream Neighborhood: A Remodeled Spanish style in Encanto/Palmcroft

Joe Janus — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 04:29:00 GMT

Among homes for sale in Phoenix, it doesn’t get much better than vintage Spanish/Mediterranean in Arizona’s own Beverly Hills, the coveted Encanto/Palmcroft neighborhood. And this one is special for so many reasons. It’s on a corner lot facing the Encanto Golf Course, giving it privacy, a lovely view, and country club ambiance without those annoying fees. It’s a three-level house with a newly built, separate guest house and two-car garage. It has two fireplaces and a beautifully kept back yard with a pool. And it’s been fully remodeled with a deep devotion to preserving the original design.

In 1936, Margaret Mitchell published a little tale called Gone with the Wind. Hoover Dam was completed and the Green Hornet began fighting crime over America’s radio waves. The first edition of Life magazine hit the newsstands. And this house was born. When you enter the foyer and behold the grand staircase with its original wrought-iron banister, the wood floors that extend throughout the house, the French doors, vaulted ceilings, and skylights, you can’t help but admire the charm and solid craftsmanship of those buoyant and optimistic days.

With 4,700 square feet, a dedicated bathroom for each of the five bedrooms (plus a powder bath for day visitors), an eat-in kitchen, formal dining room, and breakfast bar, there’s plenty of room for even the most space-loving of families. Phoenix real estate just keeps getting better and better!

As of 7/22/08, the home is being offered at $1,495,000. Check out all the details on this Phoenix historic home for sale or call me on 602-620-6267 to make an appointment to see it.

Like to quickly search over 50,000 Metro Phoenix homes for sale? Go to Phoenix MLS listings.

Like to see a portfolio focused on a particular neighborhood, style of home, architect or other criteria or just don't have time to search? Let me do the searching for you.

Your home is waiting and I can help you find it.

Joe Janus - Phoenix Real Estate

One of Phoenix’s (Actually Paradise Valley) Best Homes For Sale: Dazzling Modern Palace In The Sky

Joe Janus — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 20:43:00 GMT

This is a house like you’ve seen in some of your best dreams—nestled in the mountains for views as eclectic as the seasons (well, in places where they have seasons), and exuding a charm that many Modern homes for sale in the Phoenix area today are sadly without. And all in a gorgeous palace in the sky that is both lavishly spacious (5,400 square feet!) and very up-to-date (central vacuum system; built-in programmable automation system with 135-switch interface centralizing security, sound, video, and lighting and fire features).

The amenities are straight out of a luxury resort brochure: The front-yard cliff waterfall grandly conducts you in. You get 4 bedrooms, 4 ½ baths, and a separate-access pool/guest house next to the salt water infinity pool and spa. And everywhere you look there’s another ideally relaxing spot: many patios for gathering, a panoramic living room for gazing, indoor and outdoor wet bars for getting your bartender groove on. Outdoor fire features and an indoor 12-foot waterfall with LED computerized lighting scenes fully wrap up the point that this is a very special, lovingly built home.

Cabinets throughout the home were custom-made by the German designer Poggen Pohl, whose furniture-like cabinetry is internationally celebrated as much for its outstanding technical quality as for its aesthetic appeal. Updates in 2006 include new, top-of-the-line gadgetry, such as Kohler fixtures, ToTo Neorest toilet, and custom sinks in the bathrooms, and sub-zero refrigerator and Miehle Dishwasher in the game room (not to mention all new appliances in the kitchen and laundry room).

The home is being offered at $3,950,000 as of the date of this post. Click Paradise Valley contemporary home for sale for the virtual tour, photos and description or call me on 602-620-6267 with questions.
Like to quickly search other Paradise Valley homes for sale? Go to Paradise Valley MLS listings.
Like to see a portfolio focused on a particular neighborhood, style of home, architect or other criteria or just don't have time to search? Let me find your home for you.

Joe Janus - Paradise Valley Real Estate

This Home Is a Real Puzzle

Joe Janus — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 00:54:00 GMT

Today, let's take a diversion from my usual focus on Phoenix area homes, with a side trip to New York City. Anyone fascinated by unique architecture will be intrigued by the Fifth Ave Klinsky-Sherry home, in which architectural designer Eric Clough embedded 18 clues that lead the family on a scavenger hunt through the rooms of their home.

Inspired by his client's request to hide a poem written by Mr. Klinsky for his family somewhere in the house, like a time capsule, Clough went on to secretly hide a treasure hunt within the apartment. He revealed few of his plans to the family, who, in fact, did not realize how unique their home was until 4 months after moving in, when their son's overnight guest suddenly realized that letters cut into a radiator grill formed a cipher.

For more about this fascinating home, visit the New York Times article, "Mystery on Fifth Avenue". Don't miss the (link) slideshow presentation of photos from this beautiful and unusual apartment. You may need to register to read the story; it's worth the effort!

Link to story

Link to the slide show

Like to quickly search over 50,000 Metro Phoenix homes for sale? Go to Phoenix MLS listings.

If you'd like help finding the perfect home, Let me do the searching for you.

Joe Janus - Phoenix Real Estate

Renovated Arcadia Ranch Home In Scottsdale Mixes Good Modern Living With Vintage Good Looks

Joe Janus — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 21:47:00 GMT

A Ranch by definition, this impeccably kept Arcadia home is really a rich, pleasing contemporary with plenty of surprises. Fully renovated by David Michael Miller Associates, it skillfully blends state-of-the-art living with a framework steeped in nostalgia and elegance. (The Scottsdale design firm has been featured in such publications as The New York Times and House Beautiful, and won many awards, including the American Society of Interior Designers’ grand prize.)

Truly the ambiance in this nearly 3,500-square-foot home with 4 bedrooms and 3 ½ baths is one of smart, spacious comfort. Facets that highlight the designer’s touch include clean, angular lines throughout the home, such as in the slate/glass tile/concrete fireplace and the satin lacquer cabinets with soapstone countertops in the bathrooms. The dignified, smoothly textured design style contrasts beautifully with the peaceful look of the many French doors, as well as the lush landscaping they invite inside. The kitchen obliges family life and social life equally well with an island and breakfast bar, white oak cabinets, sub-zero refrigerator and freezer, double ovens and integrated dishwasher. The brick patio in the back takes full advantage of the shady, mini citrus grove and a yard that is picture perfect in its clean, crisp simplicity, but may also provide an inspiring canvas for the creative green thumb. The whole package works beautifully together in a smoothly flowing, open floorplan that really brings this Ranch gem into the lifestyle of the 21st Century.

As of 5/14/08, the home is being offered at $1,475,000. To see all the details about this house and to schedule a viewing click Arcadia home for sale or call me at 602-620-6267.

Like to quickly search over 50,000 Metro Phoenix homes for sale? Go to Phoenix MLS listings.

Like to see a portfolio focused on a particular neighborhood, style of home, architect or other criteria or just don't have time to search? Let me do the searching for you. Your home is waiting and I can help you find it.

Joe Janus - Phoenix Real Estate

Photos courtesy of Susan Fishman of Russ Lyon Realty.

Don't Buy Or Sell In Metro Phoenix Without This Market Data! Average Home Prices, Declines, Increases By Zip Code

Joe Janus — Sat, 31 May 2008 15:47:00 GMT

I've uploaded the MLS market stats report for the 1st quarter of 2008 for ALL Maricopa County zip codes. Compared to the same quarter in 2007 almost all areas show a decline (not a big surprise there) in the average home price. However a few areas have experienced an increase. Zip code 85258 (McCormick Ranch area) experienced a 1.48 % decline, 85251 (downtown Scottsdale, the west part of Arcadia) experienced a 3.1% increase and 85263 (Rio Verde area in Scottsdale) took a 29.63% hit to it's average home price.

With all the information and negative media reports that generalize huge market declines everwhere I thought a "true" look at the numbers will help you make the best decision possible in this crazy market!

Download the report and educate yourself...

Joe Janus - Phoenix homes for sale

Beautiful Spanish Territorial Home For Sale In Phoenix’s Willo Historic District

Joe Janus — Thu, 22 May 2008 15:54:00 GMT

Here is a perfect example of what the Great Southwest has to offer the architectural canon: a 1936 Spanish Territorial in the heart of the Willo Historic District. The gable-less, pitched roof is all Territorial; its barrel tiles Spanish Mission. The Saltillo tiles throughout the home, as well as the brightly colored tiles around the fireplace, are the result of another, more distantly Spanish influence, via nearby Mexico. The covered porch is reminiscent of the long porches or portales that were important to both Spanish and Territorial styles, as are the look of adobe to the exterior walls and the abundance of French doors and paned windows.

However, no hauling water from the pump, or wood for the stove, as our pioneer forebears were forced to do. The kitchen and 2.75 baths have been updated with appliances, fixtures, and decorative embellishments that bring the home directly into the current century. Not to mention—speaking of improvements on the mature legacy of this home—the spaciousness of well over 2,000 square feet; the luxuriousness of a pool, outdoor fireplace, and built-in barbecue; and an HVAC system that’s still in its infancy. In fact, the whole place is in impeccable condition—as if it’s only been lived in on Sundays, every other decade, and only by people who loved it immensely, as you will too.

As of 5/22/08, the home is being offered at $659,000. See photos and details about this house. You can also call me on 602-620-6267.

Like to quickly search over 50,000 Metro Phoenix homes for sale? Go to Phoenix MLS listings.

Like to see a portfolio focused on a particular neighborhood, style of home, architect or other criteria or just don't have time to search? Let me do the searching for you.

Your home is waiting and I can help you find it.

Joe Janus - Phoenix Real Estate