I’m starting to hear it continually, almost every day, “What is going on with our Phoenix and Scottsdale real estate markets?”  People are hearing stories from friends, co-workers, and the guy next to them in line at Starbucks.  Are we seeing a shift, and more importantly, will the trend continue?

It seems as though 2012 may be the year where we start to see a steady recovery.  2011 showed strong signs of heading in that direction:

-      MLS had the highest year in unit sales of all time other than 2005

-      Prices in both November and December outperformed those month in 2010 in both median and average prices

We have also seen a shift in the Phoenix and Scottsdale foreclosures and short sales market.  In 2011, bank owned sales accounted for 42% of the sales and 23% for short sales.  In November and December those figures equalized showing us that bank owned homes are starting to dry up and Phoenix and Scottsdale short sales have become more of the norm.

We are already seeing increased demand and limited supply in 2012, which has been carried over from 2011.  Another motivating factor for sellers in 2012 is the expiration of the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act that forgives tax debt to some short sale sellers.  With this expiration many sellers who have been on the fence about short selling will take advantage of the opportunity before the statute expires.

We are seeing 2.5 months supply right now in our market, again showing that there is more demand than supply.  4-6 months supply typically indicates a “normal” market.  Buyers will continue to deal with multiple offer situations, competing with an abundance of cash buyers, and having to offer above list price in this market, in the hopes of buying the home of their dreams.

Taking all of this into account, 2012 should be a year where we see positive steps forward in the Arizona real estate market.

2011 Shows Positive Trends for the Phoenix Real Estate Market

BY ALYSSA SAMUELSON

REALTOR/Designated Broker, Success Real Estate Group

Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE), Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR), Short Sales and Foreclosures Certification (SFR), Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI)

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

DON'T FORGET!

TAX FORGIVENESS ACT EXPIRES IN 2012

IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING SHORT SELLING ***NOW*** IS THE TIME TO BEAT THE DEADLINE!

****** ARE YOU CONSIDERING SHORT SELLING YOUR HOME?*******

ARE YOU FAMILIAR WITH THE HAFA PROGRAM?

---  $3,000 cash credit at closing

---  Automatic release of any deficiency judgment

HURRY!  The federal tax exemption expires this year.

We have successfully negotiated multiple HAFA transactions!  Contact me today for more info!

 

Single family home sales were up over 12% from 2010 to 2011.  In 2011 there were 84,518 purchased in the greater Phoenix and Scottsdale homes markets as compared to 75,200 in 2010, 80,313 in 2009 and 51,409 in 2008.

Overall, more Arizona properties were purchased in 2011 than the previous 3 years.  We saw an 11.9% increase in all property sales in the area from 2010 to 2011.

2011	2010	2009	2008
99,843	89,239	91,060	58,388

 

The average days on market for properties was 102 days in 2011, similar to 2010 at 101 days. In 2009 average days on market was 108 days and 122 days in 2008.

In 2011 we saw the average sales price to list price at 96.11% meaning that homes on average sold at 96.11% of the list price. This is slightly higher than in previous years at 95.68% (2010), 95.91% (2009), and 95.36% (2008).

The average sales price in 2011 was $156,774.

2011	2010	2009	2008
$156,774	$170,166	$168,898	$246,731

 

The average square feet of homes purchased remained in line with previous years and stayed within the range of 1,921 to 1,991 feet.

The number of short sales in 2011 increased while the number of lender owned (REO-real estate owned) properties decreased.  We also saw normal or traditional sales increase in 2011 over 2010.

 

Phoenix Foreclosures Sales

2011	2010	2009	2008
42,275	40,117	52,685	25,038
42.3%	45.0%	57.9%	42.9%

 

Greater Phoenix Area and Scottsdale Short Sales

2011	2010	2009	2008
23,201	19,047	12,603	3,731
23.2%	21.3%	13.8%	6.4%

 

Normal/Traditional Sales

2011	2010	2009	2008
34,366	30,075	25,772	29,619
34.4%	33.7%	28.3%	50.7%

 

In Maricopa county foreclosure notices decreased relatively dramatically in 2011 with 56,996 notices.  In 2010 we saw 84,106, 103,341 in 2009 and 79,227 in 2008.

We saw investors come out of the woodwork in 2011 with regard to purchasing properties at the Maricopa county auction (trustee’s sales).  The majority of the below purchases can be attributed to investors who then completed a fix and flip on the property.

2011	2010	2009	2008
15,322	10,881	7,204	1,773

 

 

Data provided by The Cromford Report.  For more information please go to www.SouthScottsdaleHomes.com

Featured Properties for Sale

NEW LISTING!

2065 W POSADA AVE Mesa, AZ 85202 $89,000

Cute home on large lot, great location!

http://2065wposadaavenue.epropertysites.com/

Cute home on large lot, great location! Minutes from the 101, ASU/Tempe and Chandler! Living room opens into kitchen with plenty of cabinets. Separate pass through to bonus room - den or office or great room - use your creativity! Split bedroom and bath on bonus room side of house. Two good sized bedrooms in main part of home. Great price for the location, clean template to design as your own!

 

NEW LISTING!

2655 W. Onza Avenue Mesa, AZ 85202 $128,000

HAFA Approved Short Sale

http://2655wonzaavenue.epropertysites.com/

Get approval in 10 days! Great value on this Dobson Ranch area home. Perfect location - so close to the 101 and 60 freeways, Tempe, restaurants, shopping, etc. Spacious 4 bedroom home with great layout and large rooms. Many of the big ticket items have been done here! - Roof (3 years), HVAC (2 years), Pool pump & filter (2 years), Garage door (2 years),sliding glass door and back patio door. All you need to do is bring your paintbrush (previous owners loved bright colors) and some yard clean up, and it's ready to go! Kitchen was updated previously and includes all appliances. Nice covered patio and large pool - perfect for outdoor parties! Hurry on this one - should go quickly!

 

NEW LISTING!

1287 N. Alma School Rd. #165 Chandler, AZ 85224 $49,900

Cute 1 bedroom in Great Location!

http://1287nalmaschoolrd165.epropertysites.com/

This will not last at this price! Minutes from the 101 and Chandler Fashion Square! Upgraded kitchen with granite coutertops and stainless steel, high end stone tile flooring! Raised, upgraded cabinets. Large living & dining area with contemporary paint colors and wood flooring! Exit to covered patio from living. Large master bedroom with walk in closet. First floor for easy access, one covered space included. Near community pool for those hot AZ summers!

 

17153 E Salida DR Fountain Hills, AZ 85268 $245,000

Home has been COMPLETELY REMODELED!

http://17153esalidadrive.epropertysites.com/

Home has been COMPLETELY REMODELED & is a handyman, contractor's, hobbyist's, or mechanic's DREAM HOME! Home features a 4 CAR GARAGE and AIR CONDITIONED WORKSHOP! Too many upgrades to list! Remodeled kitchen and baths, newer AC & water heater, flat roof recently redone, upgraded insulation added t-out home, freshly stucco'd and painted exterior, newer dual pane windows, newer tile & carpet, walls have been retextured & painted, all ceiling popcorn removed, closet built in's added, termite warranty included! LARGE laundry room. Wood burning fireplace for those cool AZ winters. Oversized lot.3 covered patios. This home has been LOVINGLY cared for. Home is IMMACULATE & UNIQUE- you won't find another one like it!Check out video in photos!

 

1501 W Virginia Ave Phoenix, AZ 85007 $179,900

Absolutely Adorable home in Phoenix Historic Area!

http://1501wvirginiaavenue.epropertysites.com/

Absolutely adorable home in Great Phoenix Historic neighborhood! This home has been completely remodeled from top to bottom,yet still retains it's charm. Long list of upgrades include: Travertine flooring t-out(new carpet in both bedrooms),new custom cabinets in kitchen, beautiful slab granite c-tops, tile backsplash, new appliances (all included!), new sink, fixtures & disposal. Gorgeous bathroom remodel includes extensive tile, separate tiled shower & tub, new sink & fixtures. New 200 amp electrical service, plumbing, H20 heater,& AC & garage. Huge lot offers privacy fencing, covered patio & large driveway. Across street from Encanto park & golf course, down the street from Phoenix College, & a stone's throw from all Downtown Phoenix has to offer. Did I mention this is a REGULAR SALE??!

 

937 N 86TH WAY Scottsdale, AZ 85257 $160,000

Great Value in South Scottsdale!

http://937n86thway.epropertysites.com/

The Trails at Scottsdale is south Scottsdale's hidden gem! This quiet, aesthetically pleasing community has underground power lines and is well maintained. Close to everything! 101, 202, Old Town Scottsdale, Tempe Marketplace, ASU, aiport, downtown Phoenix-location cannot be beat! Corner lot for added privacy, back yard with grass and diving pool. Very large master bedroom and bath, good sized walk in closet, oversized shower. Separate bedroom exit to backyard. Remodeled baths and kitchen, tile flooring throughout. Brushed nickel fixtures and contemporary painting make you feel like you are at home. 3rd bed/den has two glass double doors and is good sized. Large family room with wood burning fireplace. 2 car garage. HURRY, won't last long!

 

 

 

5927 E WINDSOR AVE Scottsdale, AZ 85257 $450,000

Fantastic Home for Sale in Desirable Neighborhood!

http://5927ewindsor.epropertysites.com/

Fantastic home for sale in the desirable Sherwood Estates historic district of Scottsdale! This block home screams quality throughout and is on a great size lot with views of the Papago and Camelback mountains. Long list of features include: top of the line speaker surround system, extra insulation, top of the line Trane AC unit, roof warranty, plaster walls. Tons of indoor/outdoor storage, and all appliances come with the house, including new front loading washer/dryer. Amazing ~15,000 sq ft lot includes brand new reinforced block wall, hot tub, large covered patio, fruit trees, RV gate, and AWESOME 1100 sq ft putting green! You will never want to leave this yard. Great Scottsdale location where homes don't come up for sale very often - don't miss this one!

 

1117 W. Huntington Dr. Phoenix, AZ 85041 $99,900

Large, newer home in the heart of south Phoenix!

http://1117whuntingtondr.epropertysites.com/

Very close commuting to down town Phoenix, I-17, and south Mountain for the outdoor enthusiast. Large open great room leading into kitchen. Vaulted ceilings open to loft area upstairs. Tile throughout except bedrooms and upstairs. Master bedroom downstairs, has dual sinks and walk in closet. Large bedroom with extra room for sitting or desk area. 3 bedrooms plus bonus loft (large!) upstairs. Large oversized/walk in closets. Corner lot with no houses directly next to home. Tenant may be interested in staying but will vacate for an owner occupied purchase. Lease is at $950/month.

 

 

7837 E. Valley Vista Dr. Scottsdale, AZ 85250 $69,900
This 3 bedroom town home is a STEAL for this area!

http://7837evalleyvistadr.epropertysites.com/

This 3 bedroom town home is a STEAL for this area/location - in 85250! Adorable 3/1.5 two level town home. Half bath downstairs, 3 bedrooms and full bath upstairs. Remodeled kitchen! Large and cute private patio with grassy area just beyond. Amazing location between Greenbelt and canal. 5 minutes to Old Town Scottsdale and walking distance to Chaparral Park and Saguaro High School. Don't miss out, this home will sell fast! No Pets per HOA unless assistive. Currently rented at $750, tenant interested in extending lease but will vacate for owner occupied.

 

 

 

Featured Properties for Rent!

 

NEW LISTING!

3031 N CIVIC CENTER PLZ 240 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

OLD TOWN SCOTTSDALE Location!!

http://3031nciviccenterplaza240.epropertysites.com/

Coveted Old Town Scottsdale location - walking distance to galleries, shopping restaurants and SF Giants spring training stadium. 15 minutes to airport and just a few from the 101. Gated community with 2 pools (Olympic sized pool and adult pool), heated hot tub, raquetball, tennis court, basketball court, BBQ's, and workout facility available. Assigned parking. Tastefully furnished second level unit has split floor plan, master with walk in closet and exit to balcony. Great room feel, wood burning fireplace for those cold winter nights. Separate storage area with plenty of room. Seasonal rate $2,200.

 

NEW LISTING!

1221 N GRANITE REEF RD Scottsdale, AZ 85257 $1050

Adorable Condo in  South Scottsdale Community!

http://1221ngranitereefrd.epropertysites.com/

Adorable furnished rental! Shows like a model, very well cared for and tastefully decorated. Light and bright, galley kitchen with newer cabinets and all appliances. Tile in all wet areas, neutral carpet. Plantation shutters downstairs for upgraded feel. Separate laundry room with full sized W/D and extra storage space/shelving. One car carport attached to property for easy access. Half bath downstairs and open living area. Gorgeous, private, patio complete with BBQ and seating area! Lush, green vegetation adds to privacy and serenity. Master bedroom upstairs with two good sized closets and large bedroom. Cute second bedroom, perfect for office or guest bedroom. Full sized shower with tile border. Great location, minutes to Old Town Scottsdale, Tempe, 101, 202, airport! Seasonal is $1500.

 

3031 N. Civic Center #135, Scottsdale, AZ 85251 $899

Newly remodeled 1/1 in GATED Center Court!

http://3031nciviccenter135.epropertysites.com/

RENTED Feb/March 2012, otherwise available. Newly remodeled 1/1 in GATED Center Court Community! Fully furnished unit, walking distance to all that Old Town has to offer. Community has clubhouse, 'almost' Olympic sized pool, large hot tub, racquetball, assigned parking. Neutral colors throughout, brand new Travertine flooring and carpet in the bedroom. Dual sinks, separate shower for privacy. Oversized walk in closet. Contemporary and brand new furnishings. Washer/dryer included, walk in pantry, good sized patio and very private unit on bottom floor (garden level). Seasonal rate is $1995/month and includes utilities. Short term non seasonal at $899, does not include utilities.

 

3031 N Civic Center Pl. #125 Scottsdale, AZ 85251 $850

Gorgeous Condo in Great Scottsdale Location!

http://3031nciviccenterpl125.epropertysites.com/

RENTED THROUGH 8/10/11. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! BEAUTIFULLY FURNISHED - MY OWNER HAS TAKEN PRIDE IN ME! I've been decorated with style! Large kitchen with breakfast bar, nice complex with tons of amenities - gated, tennis courts, indoor basketball court, 2 pools and 2 spas, weight room, & racquetball. I even have a fireplace! With me, you'll be in the heart of Old Town and everything it has to offer. I'm PERFECT for short term visitor or business traveler! HOA only allows dogs up to 30 lbs.

 

4600 N 68th St. #374 Scottsdale, AZ 85251 $850

Beautiful Condo Close to Old Town!!

http://4600n68thst374.epropertysites.com/

***AVAILABLE 8/15/11.***** Owner has given this condo a makeover! Freshly painted, updated furniture, new tile! FULLY FURNISHED, beautiful 1 bedroom unit. Southwest decor for the Arizona enthusiast. Next to FASHION SQUARE MALL, WALKING DISTANCE to Old Town with many SHOPS AND RESTAURANTS. NEW SLEEPER SOFA - CAN SLEEP 4. Off season rate does not include electric.

 

 

Investment Properties!

 

Now is the time to buy!  We have access to thousands of foreclosures, distressed sales, and wholesale properties.  Call or e-mail today for more details or a list of reduced priced homes!

 

 

Business Leader of the Month

Matthew Beutel Photography

Based out of Chandler and offering valley wide photography services.  A wide array of packages are available for portraits, family, kids and senior pictures, as well as wedding and other special events.  Every photo session comes with high resolution pictures on a disc and full rights to use as desired.  No need to pay more for the ability to print at your leisure.  Check my facebook page for current pricing and monthly specials.

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/matthewbeutelphotography

Email: matthewbeutelphotography@yahoo.com

Website: www.matthewbeutelphotography.com  Currently undergoing a facelift

 

Fun Facts & Tips

Fun Conservation tips for Saving Water

• Check household faucets for leaks. A faucet with even a slow drip takes 10 to 25 gallons of water. Just think, 15 drips per minute add up to almost 3 gallons of water wasted per day, 65 gallons wasted per month, and 788 gallons wasted per year!
• Keep showers to 5 minutes or less in length. A five-minute shower takes 10 to 25 gallons of water.
• Keep a pitcher of water in the refrigerator. Then you won't have to run tap water to cool it.
• Use a broom to sweep your driveway, garage, or sidewalk instead of using water.
• Use a bucket of water to wash your bike or the family car and rinse quickly with a hose.
• Water your lawn in the evening or in the early morning to avoid evaporation. Be careful to water only the lawn and not the sidewalk or street.
• Use water only when you need it. Don't leave water running; be sure to turn it off when you are finished.

Brought to you by fcwa.org

What’s Happening Around Town This Month

Art Walks, Music, and Beer Festivals this February!

• 2nd Friday in Mesa
  Live music, entertainment, art walk, prizes. Each month has a theme. Family friendly. Free admission. On Main Steet between Center and Country Club in Downtown Mesa.
  In 2012: 2nd Friday of the month
• AAA Travel Show
  The one-stop place to plan your next trip, learn valuable travel tips, win prizes, and visit with your favorite cruise and travel companies all under one roof. Phoenix Convention Center.
  In 2012: February 18, 19
• Afternoon Concert Series
  Bringing live music to the downtown lunch scene from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the amphitheater stage at Civic Space Park, 424 N. Central Ave. Call for info 602-262-7490.
  In 2012: February 8, 15, 22, 29
• Apache Junction Art Festival of the Superstitions
  Juried fine-art show with live musical entertainment, theatrical performance groups and food court. Central Arizona College.
  In 2012: February ??

• Arizona Beer Week
  A celebration of all things craft beer. Tastings, beer-pairing dinners, beer seminars, home brewer confabs, pub crawls, and other activities paying homage to this popular cold beverage.
  In 2012: February 18-25
• Arizona Fine Art Expo
  A 10 week event in north Scottsdale. See designers, painters, sketchers and sculptors at work. Demonstrations and workshops, fine wines and cuisine.
  In 2012: January 19 - April 1
• Arizona Renaissance Festival
  Apache Junction. Each year you can enjoy music, theater, comedy, food and drink, crafts, games and knights jousting at the Arizona Renaissance Festival.
  In 2012: February 11 - April 1
• Arizona Strong Beer Festival
  Part of Arizona Beer Week. Tastings of strong beers (those with high alcohol content) and craft beers. Food vendors, live music. Steele Indian School Park. 21+ only.
  In 2012: February 18
• Celebration of Fine Art
  Scottsdale hosts over 100 artists from Arizona and elsewhere in its big white tents.
  In 2012: January 14 - March 25
• Centerline Artwerks | First Saturdays
  Features live performing artists, local painters, sculptors, dancers and musicians. Just east of Murphy Park at 58th Avenue north of Glendale Avenue, event goers will have the opportunity to watch artists at work as well as tour the historic area. Free to attend.
  In 2012: February 4
• Ceramics Studio Tour
  Go online for a printable tour map for this self-guided tour of participating artists around the Phoenix area. View demonstrations of wheel-throwing, hand-building and glazing techniques. Free.
  In 2012: February 25, 26
• First Saturday Public Art Walk
  Docent led tours of the Fountain Hills public art collection including more than 70 artworks in parks, plazas and public buildings. Tours are in the morning, take approximately one hour and begin in the Community Center Sculpture Garden. There is a charge for the tour. Reservations required. 480-816-5100.
  In 2012: First Saturday of the month
• Gilbert Art Walk
  Fine art in different mediums, all price ranges. Artists qualify to be part of the event through a jury selection process. All art items are original creations. More than 30 booths. Water Tower Park, Gilbert.
  In 2012: February 24

Pets of the Month:

Cat of the month: Chablis

Breed: Domestic Medium Hair
Gender: Female
Birthday: 1/24/2000

More About Chablis

Chablis is a gorgeous girl looking for a forever family! She is a calm cat who likes to lounge. She would be perfect for a home who can give her a nice warm bed or lap to curl up on most the day.

For Photos, more information or to adopt Chablis, please visit http://aawl.org/adopt/cats/chablis47923

 

Dog of the month: Eclipse

Breed: Terrier Pitbull-Mix
Gender: Female    
Birthday: 3/26/2011

More About Eclipse

I am one cutie pie with beautiful markings ready to find my fur-ever home!

I am an active young gal and need a family who is willing to devote the time, love, patience, and training it takes to teach me how to be a well mannered canine! Check out the training classes AAWL has to offer, it will be a great bonding experience.

I LOVE plush toys. I enjoy carrying them around and galloping through the yard. My happy-go-lucky attitude is contagious and I promise a day won't go by without laughter and smiles if you take me home.

Come on down and spend some time with me today!

For Photos, more information or to adopt Eclipse, please visit http://aawl.org/adopt/dogs/eclipse49849

 

Community Leader of the Month

 

SRP with a Pledge to Save Water

After 5,00 pledges are submitted, we will celebrate by helping Homeward Bound conserve water with a $5,000 grantfor water-efficient faucets at its transitional housing facilities for families with children that are homeless or affected by domestic violence.

As the largest water provider in the Phoenix metropolitan area for more than 100 years, SRP carefully manages our limited supply so we’ll have enough for today and tomorrow.

Find out what we can do to pledge and save water at togetherweconserve.com. Together we can make a difference.

Go to togetherweconserve.com and pledge to conserve water to learn more!

 

We are never too busy for any of your referrals!    

 

We can help you or anyone you know who is:

• interested in purchasing a property (including multiple first time home buyer programs)
• selling a property
• in need of finding a renter for an investment property
• in need of finding a home to rent

We look forward to building our relationship with you and offering our services whenever you are in need!

According to the Case-Shiller Index, published by Standard and Poor’s, Phoenix was the only city out its top 20 followed that showed a price increase from October to November, 2011.  Prices were up.6% during that time frame as compared to a 1.3% drop in prices in the other cities.  More data to show that the Phoenix and Scottsdale Real Estate market is gaining momentum and we may have seen the bottom, only time will tell.