MARCH | APRIL 2022
COVER HOME My latest listing priced at $4,995,000
EVENT CALENDAR MARCH | APRIL 2022
Clay & Paper: Japanese Ceramics & Screens Phoenix | Through April 24 Phxart.org It’s your last chance to view this special installation at the Phoenix Art Museum. On display are functional and decorative modern ceramics and silk screens that highlight Japanese culture and history. Traditionally, artists from different schools of painting were commissioned to create landscapes and festive scenes on the paper screens over wooden framework. Modern ceramics made since the end of WWII are crafted with organic, asymmetrical designs.
Fried Chicken & Wings Festival Tempe | March 20 TicketTailor.com This global-inspired festival showcases small businesses and their culinary creativity. More than 10 local businesses will share their version of the classic fried chicken, from Korean to Nashville style. Hosting the event is the indoor/outdoor venue The Pressroom.
Spring Fine Art & Wine Festival Carefree | March 18-20 ThunderBirdArtists.com A signature event of Carefree, the annual Fine Art and Wine Festival marks 27 years this spring. More than 160 world-class, juried artists come together to display their unique work, including bronze sculptures, hand-blown glass, handcrafted jewelry, and more.
Revolution: Music of the Beatles Phoenix | March 25-27 Tickets.PhoenixSymphony.org Conductor Matthew Kasper leads top vocalists and musicians in a fresh, authorized symphonic tribute to The Beatles. The production features new arrangements, created by Grammy Winner Jeff Tyzic, of the Fab Four’s top hits. Rare photos and videos will be projected onto a large screen above the orchestra, giving the audience an allencompassing experience.
Maricopa County Fair Phoenix | April 6-10 MaricopaCountyFair.org Held at the Arizona State Fair Grounds, Maricopa County Fair is the largest county fair carnival in Phoenix. Enjoy dozens of rides, shop more than 85 vendors, and sample fair food favorites including Deep Fried Coffee and the Mac Doggie Dog. Agriculture and livestock shows also are a mainstay of the event. There’s something for everyone!
COUNTER INTELLIGENCE
N
othing has more impact in a kitchen than a great countertop. Although granite has been the top choice for years, new and varied materials are making their mark in the heart of the home. Here are the top choices and what to consider when picking each one.
GRANITE. People love granite because it’s tough and beautiful. And since each slab of granite is unique it can give a kitchen a one-of-a-kind feel. But it can be expensive if you’re looking for a particular style that is not readily available. Granite is also heat-resistant (meaning you can put a hot pot on it without damage). Remember, however, that granite does need to be sealed periodically. If you’re considering other natural stones— think limestone, marble, or soapstone—remember that these are softer stones and are more easily damaged than granite.
QUARTZ. Not everyone realizes it but quartz is an engineered stone. It’s easy to live with and requires no sealing or polishing. It’s a durable surface made to look like natural stone and comes in limitless colors and styles. It doesn’t stand up to hot pots placed on it, however, so it does take some care if quartz is your choice.
CONCRETE. Looking for that industrial look? Poured concrete may be just what you want. Concrete countertops are durable but beware: they can stain. An installer can pour them to fit your space or they can be purchased precast. Try blending with other countertops such as wood to warm up your kitchen. WOOD. Like the look of wood? Something like a butcher-block countertop can a great choice to warm up a kitchen. Wood can scratch but luckily it can be sanded and stained to get its original shine back. Wood is also antibacterial making it a great choice in kitchens. Remember, however, that water damage is possible so if you and your kids are often leaving drinks on the counter, this might not be the best choice. You will also need to oil the wood periodically for best appearance and performance.
REAL ESTATE
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Another aspect to consider is how your sheets will help regulate your temperature. You can consider thread count in this regard, as a higher count typically translates to a tighter weave and thus, a warmer sheet. If you tend to get overheated at night, look for a sheet that offers cooling benefits and moisturewicking ability. Flannel sheets are denser and heavier – perfect for chilly nights. Bamboo sheets are more breathable and silkier – ideal for hot desert weather.
A
good night’s sleep is crucial to your overall health and day-today productivity. You may have invested in a nice mattress, lavish pillows, and cozy comforters, but have you considered your sheets? They are easy to overlook but can have a big impact on your comfort and quality of sleep. When choosing new sheets, it’s important to consider factors such as fabric, weave, ease of care, durability, and cost.
IN GOOD TASTE
First, it’s important to know that thread count alone is not indicative of a more luxurious sheet. While it used to be true that a high thread count equaled a higher quality fabric, times have changed thanks to massive fabric innovations. Experts suggest that instead of focusing on thread count, buyers should consider the type of thread with a higher quality fiber. This will ensure your sheets feel soft and gentle on your skin.
The fabric of a sheet refers to a textile’s thread. Along with flannel and bamboo, jersey, cotton, linen, and silk are common sheet fabrics. The type of fabric used in sheets will give you an idea of their longevity and care needs. Jersey sheets are extra soft and stretchy but are prone to wrinkling and shrinking in the wash. Linen is delicate but durable and can create a clean, tailored look if you don’t mind the extra ironing or steaming required to keep it crisp. Silk sheets also need special attention to look their best but are great for those with sensitive skin. Ultimately, finding the perfect sheet is about prioritizing your needs across different categories. Spending time, effort, and money on the sheets that are right for you is a worthwhile investment. They go a long way in truly making your bedroom feel like a retreat you can relax into at the end of a long day. Plus, the benefit of a good night’s sleep? Priceless.
BAJA BRUNCH INGREDIENTS 1 can
Enchilada sauce
1/2 cup
Corn
6
SWEET EARTH Enlightened Baja Breakfast Burritos
1/2 cup
Diced tomatoes
1/4 cup
Chopped cilantro
1 cup
Grated cheese
1/2
Lime
1
Avocado, chopped
DIRECTIONS In a 13 × 9-inch baking pan, spread half of enchilada sauce on bottom of pan. Place 6 frozen Sweet Earth Breakfast Burritos in a row. Top with remaining enchilada sauce & cheese. Bake at 375° F for 40 minutes. Prepare Guacamole: Place avocado, corn, tomatoes, and cilantro in a bowl, squeeze with lime & mix. Pull out pan when done, set aside for 10 minutes. Top with guacamole & enjoy!
GoodNes.com
KELLY McLAIN
realtor® | 602.625.4653 | mclainjk@aol.com
“
THE #1 AGENT FOR THE
ORANGE TREE & EQUESTRIAN MANOR AREA WITH OVER
”
100 TRANSACTIONS! kellymclain.com
Orange Tree Active & Pending Listings Address
BED
BATH
SQFT List Price
Neighborhood
5701 E CHARTER OAK RD
4
2.5
2,494
$1,149,450
CENTURY NORTH
6002 E CORRINE DR
4
4
3,612
$1,500,000
AVANT 1
12215 N 62ND PL
3
2
2,389
$799,900
SHEA NORTH ESTATES
5503 E CANNON DR
4
2.5
3,055
$1,300,000
PROMONTORY LOT
11826 N 55TH PL
4
3
2,795
$1,450,000
WOODLEAF 2
5481 E LUPINE AVE
4
3.5
3,332
$1,599,900
ORANGETREE ESTATES
5917 E NORTH LN
3
2.5
2,148
$850,000
COUNTRY ESTATES
6202 E LARKSPUR DR
4
3
2,605
$875,000
SHEA NORTH ESTATES
5975 E Larkspur DR
4
3
2,624
$950,000
Avant 1
5902 E CORRINE DR
4
2.5
2,310
$1,159,000
AVANT 1
6228 E PERSHING AVE
11
10
3,630
$1,500,000
SHEA NORTH ESTATES 2
6324 E CORRINE DR
5
3.75
4,267
$1,600,000
SHEA NORTH ESTATES
ACTIVE CANDIS CREEL, Account Manager
602.697.0232 | ccreel@atsaaz.com “My team and I have had the awesome pleasure of working alongside Kelly McLain for nearly 10 years now. He is truly one of the most loyal, dedicated and knowledgeable Realtors with whom we’ve ever worked! His clients are very privileged to have him represent them, especially in a challenging market. We feel honored to handle the escrow transactions and would highly recommend him to anyone looking to buy or sell a home!”
On the cover you will see my latest sale, listed at $4,995,000 and under contract in 13 days. On the back cover you will see the latest price per square foot graph for luxury homes in our area. The November issue of the Orange Tree Insider showed $440 per square foot, now we are showing $700 per square foot. That kind of appreciation will become unsustainable going forward. We are seeing many indicators that I track turn down, (such as demand) we are also seeing an increase in days on the market, and price reductions. Have we reached a peak? No one can call the top or the bottom, we just follow indicators. Inflation, Fed Rates, Stock Market , Russia, all playing a role in the future of our economy and housing market. Greater Phoenix area still remains the number destination in the country. I don’t see that stopping for the remainder of the year. Please give me a call or text me if you would like further information regarding our homes in the Orange Tree area.
UCB
PENDING
6243 E Pershing AVE
6
4
4,082
$1,600,000
SHEA NORTH ESTATES 2
5726 E SHEA BLVD
7
5
5,037
$1,870,000
COUNTRY CLUB ESTATES
5939 E BERYL AVE
5
4.5
2,975
$2,497,000
COUNTRY ESTATES
All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Properties on this list have been listed/sold by various members of the MLS.
Kelly McLain If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.
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