SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2014
PA R A D I S E VA L L E Y
Wendy Walker Fine Properties
#1 Agent For Coldwell Residential Brokerage in Arizona 2013
20 million reasons to work with Wendy Walker Fine Properties 9290 E Thompson Peak #120, Scottsdale
7601 N Central #21, Phoenix
4129 E Sierra Vista, Paradise Valley
12032 N 114th Way, Scottsdale
3800 E Lincoln Drive #5, Phoenix
7513 N Clearwater Parkway, Paradise Valley
3740 S McClelland, Chandler
12669 E Laurel Lane, Scottsdale
4800 N 68th Street, Paradise Valley
10347 N 50th Place, Paradise Valley
Canta Mia Lot #47, Buckeye
6539 N 31st Place, Biltmore
10801 E Happy Valley #60, Scottsdale
208 W Portland #161, Phoenix
9290 E Thompson Peak #478, Scottsdale
6727 N 63rd Place, Paradise Valley
11968 E Gold Dust, Scottsdale
...YTD Closed 2014
WONDROUS WINERIES Through The Grapevine
Who You Work With Matters WendyWalkerFineProperties.com
Wendy Walker
602.468.8888 Direct Wendy@WWFineProperties.com
If you plan to buy a new home this year, consider these reasons: • Mortgage rates are low. • Home financing is available in loan amounts up to $6 million, working with a Wells Fargo Private Mortgage Banker.
Richard E McDowell Private Mortgage Banker
480.348.5016 Direct | 480.323.5074 Cell | 866.675.1016 Fax 8601 N Scottsdale Rd, Suite 100, Scottsdale, AZ 85253
www.wfhm.com/richard-mcdowell | richard.mcdowell@wellsfargo.com NMLSR ID 134250 Information is accurate as of date of printing and is subject to change without notice. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.© 2011 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801. 105351-12/13. If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.
Equity Title Biltmore Office
3125 E Lincoln Drive, Phoenix, AZ 85016
602.956.5141 Our experience makes the difference!
Produced by Desert Lifestyle Publishing • 480.460.0996 • www.DesertLifestyle.net
Cover Photography | Liana Harrison, Eclipse Photography and Marketing
All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.
Luxury Market Update Shifting Landscape
Craving Light & Fresh Fare? O.H.S.O. Brewery’s Poke’ Tuna
Stunning Tatum Foothills Oasis
9053 N 46th Street Phoenix, AZ 85028 Offered at $1.4m Exclusively By
Vineyard Visits
In Good Taste O.H.S.O. Eatery + Nano Brewery 602.955.0358 | OHSOBrewery.com
POKE’ TUNA Ingredients Tuna: 1 lb Ahi Tuna, small dice 2 Limes, halved 1 tsp Chinese Seven Spice Wonton Crackers: 12 Wonton skins 2 c Vegetable oil 1/2 c Spicy mayonnaise The Build 12 Wonton crackers 8 oz Seaweed salad 8 oz Daikon root, julienne
1 Lime, squeezed 1 tbsp Chinese Seven Spice 1 tbsp Siracha Chili Sauce
1 pkg Radish sprouts Sweet soy sauce as needed Spicy mayonnaise as needed
Preparation Tuna: In a medium bowl place diced Ahi tuna squeeze limes and add the Chinese Seven Spice, place in refrigerator until ready to use. Wonton Crackers: Take the two cups of oil and pour into sauce pot and heat to 350 degrees. Once the temperature has been reached place one wonton skin in the oil and fry until crispy. Place on a paper towel to allow the oil to drain off and continue with the rest. Continue until all wonton skins are completed. Spicy Mayonnaise: In a small bowl combine mayonnaise, lime juice, Siracha and Chinese Seven Spice and mix until smooth. Place in a small plastic bag, reserve for later. The Build Lay crackers down onto a serving platter or individual plate and top with prepared Poke’ tuna evenly on each cracker. Then layer with Daikon radish root, then a layer of seaweed salad and then drizzle the prepared spicy mayonnaise (cut the tip on the corner of bag to drizzle) over the top. Alternate layers utilizing sweet soy sauce instead of spicy mayonnaise. Garnish each one with radish sprouts.
If you’ve ever thought of visiting a vineyard but haven’t gone yet, fall is the perfect time of year to enjoy the fruits of the vine. Grape harvest time in the Northern Hemisphere is from August to October. The weather is comfortable and there is lots going on at the vineyards to see and do. You may want to plan your visit based on the wine you prefer to sip. In the U.S., for example, certain varieties reach peak ripeness at different times of the year. If you’re a fan of Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, or Chardonnay, head to the vineyards in September. Chenin Blanc, Merlot, and Syrah tend to peak closer to October. And big, rich Cabernet ripens October through November. Believe it or not, prior to the 20th century, most of America’s wine grapes were grown in the Midwest. It’s no surprise that today, however, California is the nation’s wine leader, producing 90 percent of the wine grapes grown in the U.S. Napa and Sonoma are the pinnacle of wine country on the West Coast. However, things are changing: Wineries are popping up and gaining in popularity around the country, from Washington state and Oregon, to Long Island and upstate New York. Wine grapes are now grown in all but
four states in the nation, according to Snooth.com. Seems there is a variety of grape that grows well in almost every climate in the United States. There are now some 3,000 wineries in the U.S., making it the 4th largest producer of wine in the world. That means ample opportunity for you to stop in at a winery near you or visit one the next time you’re vacationing. Many wine aficionados have their favorite variety of vino, whether it’s red, white, blush, or sparkling. But it’s always good to remember that certain wines go best with certain foods. Gone are the hard and fast rules that red wine should be paired with beef and white should be paired with chicken and seafood. A good rule of thumb: Try rosé with hors d’oeuvres; non-oaky whites (think Sauvignon Blanc) with citrusy meals; and reds with steaks and rich tomato-based dishes. Bottom line? If it makes your meal taste better, you’ve found a perfect pairing. And don’t forget to store your wine appropriately. Although only the finest and rarest of wines truly need to be cellared for a length of time, it is still important to store your wine the right way to keep it tasting its best. Try to keep it stored at a consistent
temperature (the perfect temp is 45 to 65 degrees, but don’t fret if it’s not exact). However, note that extreme changes in heat or cold could affect the taste of the wine. Also, try to keep it out of direct sunlight, which can also alter the flavor. If you aren’t lucky enough to have your own wine cellar, look for a cool, dark place in your home to store your wine or consider a wine cooler as a nice addition to your kitchen. CHEERS!
Ballet Under The Stars Various Venues | September 18-27 602.381.0184 | BalletAZ.org “Ballet Under the Stars” allows Arizona communities to enjoy dance in a unique outdoor setting complete with a stage, lighting, costumes and beautiful Arizona weather. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a varied program, ranging from classical to contemporary. You won’t want to miss this show, perfect for the entire family. This performance series has been delighting Arizona residents for 17 years and this year it has reached its largest audience ever – with six performances spanning from Tempe to Sun City West and Fountain Hills to Casa Grande, stopping at Phoenix, and Goodyear along the way.
Scottsdale International Film Festival Harkins Shea 14 | October 9-13 602.410.1074 | ScottsdaleFilmFestival.com Scottsdale International Film Festival features films from all over the world and many of the directors and producers participate in post-film Q&A’s with the audience. Take a tour around the world, peek into cultures of one or more countries, religions, or ethnicities, and emerge yourself in new insights and knowledge. The festival’s vision is to unite Arizona with the world through the expression of film.
By Michael Orr | Director of Real Estate Studies at ASU & Principal of The Cromford Report
The luxury home market in Maricopa County had an
in sales of homes over $500,000. The average price per
Nevertheless, demand has held up much better than in
excellent year in 2013, easily its best in the last seven
square foot during the first half of 2014 for luxury homes
the rest of the market. The greatest improvement has been
years. We saw almost $5 billion in sales of homes over
across Maricopa County was $233, up 4.5% from the
among homes over $2 million where unit sales during the
$500,000 during 2013 at an average price of $223 per
annual average for 2013.
second quarter were 11% higher than last year.
square foot. This was an increase of 37% over 2012’s
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2014
Sounds of New Orleans: A Tribute to Louis Armstrong Symphony Hall | September 26-28 602.495.1999 | PhoenixSymphony.org This musical showcase of the “Big Easy” features a loving tribute to Louis Armstrong. From “St. Louis Blues” and “Sweet Georgia Brown” to “What a Wonderful World” and “When the Saints Come Marching In,” virtuoso trumpeter and singer Byron Stripling leads a swinging evening filled with the sounds that make the Crescent City famous.
Luxury Market Update The general housing recovery and the obvious success of
As long as the stock market suffers no major setback and
luxury homes during 2013 has brought more sellers into the
the Phoenix economy continues to improve, the luxury
price per square foot for homes over $500,000 gained
market in 2014. There are now 34% more active listings over
home market will probably continue to outperform the
6% between 2012 and 2013.
$500,000 than there were 12 months ago (38% if we exclude
more general housing market in 2014.
In the first half of 2014 things stabilized at this strong level
listings with a contract accepting backup offers). However
but did not advance any further. The first quarter started
the supply of active listings has dropped almost 25% since
well with total luxury sales up 10% from the first quarter of
peaking in April this year and is certainly not excessive.
2013. April and June were also very good months for luxury
Lender owned homes are less than 0.6% of active listings
home sales but May was disappointing. The market is
and short sales and pre-foreclosures are down from 3.5%
looking quieter as we wrap up the long hot summer
at the start of July 2013 to just 2.2% this year.
months. For the second quarter of 2014 luxury sales edged
Another sign that the market has cooled is that the
2% lower than the same quarter in 2013. For the 12 month
average cumulative days on market for closed luxury sales
period from July 2013 to June 2014 we saw $5.4 billion
is up to 137 days having been 113 this time last year.
total of $3.6 billion in sales. The annual average sales
Event Calendar
REAL ESTATE Corner
Art In The Olive Grove The Olive Mill | October 19 Artists.Superstitions@gmail.com | ArtistsoftheSuperstitions.com A diverse group of artists will represent all types of art media including painting, photography, wood, jewelry, pottery, glass and more. Artists of the Superstitions, is an organization of artists living in Apache Junction and Gold Canyon. They are committed to enriching the art culture of our diverse community, by providing opportunities for education, promoting artistic expression, selling, displaying, networking and appreciation in an enjoyable and supportive environment. Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships: Horses & Horsepower WestWorld of Scottsdale Polo Field | October 25-26 480.423.1414 | ThePoloParty.com On Saturday the lineup features what will be the top women’s team in the world during 2014. They will take on the reigning event champions, the Clogau Wales Polo Team, which plays with Prince Charles, Prince William and Prince Harry, in a “Battle of the Sexes” match. An All-Star match between Saturday’s top players will take place alongside the USPA Governor’s Cup on Sunday. America’s top ranked professional, Julio Arellano, will play.
Vineyard Visits
In Good Taste O.H.S.O. Eatery + Nano Brewery 602.955.0358 | OHSOBrewery.com
POKE’ TUNA Ingredients Tuna: 1 lb Ahi Tuna, small dice 2 Limes, halved 1 tsp Chinese Seven Spice Wonton Crackers: 12 Wonton skins 2 c Vegetable oil 1/2 c Spicy mayonnaise The Build 12 Wonton crackers 8 oz Seaweed salad 8 oz Daikon root, julienne
1 Lime, squeezed 1 tbsp Chinese Seven Spice 1 tbsp Siracha Chili Sauce
1 pkg Radish sprouts Sweet soy sauce as needed Spicy mayonnaise as needed
Preparation Tuna: In a medium bowl place diced Ahi tuna squeeze limes and add the Chinese Seven Spice, place in refrigerator until ready to use. Wonton Crackers: Take the two cups of oil and pour into sauce pot and heat to 350 degrees. Once the temperature has been reached place one wonton skin in the oil and fry until crispy. Place on a paper towel to allow the oil to drain off and continue with the rest. Continue until all wonton skins are completed. Spicy Mayonnaise: In a small bowl combine mayonnaise, lime juice, Siracha and Chinese Seven Spice and mix until smooth. Place in a small plastic bag, reserve for later. The Build Lay crackers down onto a serving platter or individual plate and top with prepared Poke’ tuna evenly on each cracker. Then layer with Daikon radish root, then a layer of seaweed salad and then drizzle the prepared spicy mayonnaise (cut the tip on the corner of bag to drizzle) over the top. Alternate layers utilizing sweet soy sauce instead of spicy mayonnaise. Garnish each one with radish sprouts.
If you’ve ever thought of visiting a vineyard but haven’t gone yet, fall is the perfect time of year to enjoy the fruits of the vine. Grape harvest time in the Northern Hemisphere is from August to October. The weather is comfortable and there is lots going on at the vineyards to see and do. You may want to plan your visit based on the wine you prefer to sip. In the U.S., for example, certain varieties reach peak ripeness at different times of the year. If you’re a fan of Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, or Chardonnay, head to the vineyards in September. Chenin Blanc, Merlot, and Syrah tend to peak closer to October. And big, rich Cabernet ripens October through November. Believe it or not, prior to the 20th century, most of America’s wine grapes were grown in the Midwest. It’s no surprise that today, however, California is the nation’s wine leader, producing 90 percent of the wine grapes grown in the U.S. Napa and Sonoma are the pinnacle of wine country on the West Coast. However, things are changing: Wineries are popping up and gaining in popularity around the country, from Washington state and Oregon, to Long Island and upstate New York. Wine grapes are now grown in all but
four states in the nation, according to Snooth.com. Seems there is a variety of grape that grows well in almost every climate in the United States. There are now some 3,000 wineries in the U.S., making it the 4th largest producer of wine in the world. That means ample opportunity for you to stop in at a winery near you or visit one the next time you’re vacationing. Many wine aficionados have their favorite variety of vino, whether it’s red, white, blush, or sparkling. But it’s always good to remember that certain wines go best with certain foods. Gone are the hard and fast rules that red wine should be paired with beef and white should be paired with chicken and seafood. A good rule of thumb: Try rosé with hors d’oeuvres; non-oaky whites (think Sauvignon Blanc) with citrusy meals; and reds with steaks and rich tomato-based dishes. Bottom line? If it makes your meal taste better, you’ve found a perfect pairing. And don’t forget to store your wine appropriately. Although only the finest and rarest of wines truly need to be cellared for a length of time, it is still important to store your wine the right way to keep it tasting its best. Try to keep it stored at a consistent
temperature (the perfect temp is 45 to 65 degrees, but don’t fret if it’s not exact). However, note that extreme changes in heat or cold could affect the taste of the wine. Also, try to keep it out of direct sunlight, which can also alter the flavor. If you aren’t lucky enough to have your own wine cellar, look for a cool, dark place in your home to store your wine or consider a wine cooler as a nice addition to your kitchen. CHEERS!
Ballet Under The Stars Various Venues | September 18-27 602.381.0184 | BalletAZ.org “Ballet Under the Stars” allows Arizona communities to enjoy dance in a unique outdoor setting complete with a stage, lighting, costumes and beautiful Arizona weather. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a varied program, ranging from classical to contemporary. You won’t want to miss this show, perfect for the entire family. This performance series has been delighting Arizona residents for 17 years and this year it has reached its largest audience ever – with six performances spanning from Tempe to Sun City West and Fountain Hills to Casa Grande, stopping at Phoenix, and Goodyear along the way.
Scottsdale International Film Festival Harkins Shea 14 | October 9-13 602.410.1074 | ScottsdaleFilmFestival.com Scottsdale International Film Festival features films from all over the world and many of the directors and producers participate in post-film Q&A’s with the audience. Take a tour around the world, peek into cultures of one or more countries, religions, or ethnicities, and emerge yourself in new insights and knowledge. The festival’s vision is to unite Arizona with the world through the expression of film.
By Michael Orr | Director of Real Estate Studies at ASU & Principal of The Cromford Report
The luxury home market in Maricopa County had an
in sales of homes over $500,000. The average price per
Nevertheless, demand has held up much better than in
excellent year in 2013, easily its best in the last seven
square foot during the first half of 2014 for luxury homes
the rest of the market. The greatest improvement has been
years. We saw almost $5 billion in sales of homes over
across Maricopa County was $233, up 4.5% from the
among homes over $2 million where unit sales during the
$500,000 during 2013 at an average price of $223 per
annual average for 2013.
second quarter were 11% higher than last year.
square foot. This was an increase of 37% over 2012’s
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2014
Sounds of New Orleans: A Tribute to Louis Armstrong Symphony Hall | September 26-28 602.495.1999 | PhoenixSymphony.org This musical showcase of the “Big Easy” features a loving tribute to Louis Armstrong. From “St. Louis Blues” and “Sweet Georgia Brown” to “What a Wonderful World” and “When the Saints Come Marching In,” virtuoso trumpeter and singer Byron Stripling leads a swinging evening filled with the sounds that make the Crescent City famous.
Luxury Market Update The general housing recovery and the obvious success of
As long as the stock market suffers no major setback and
luxury homes during 2013 has brought more sellers into the
the Phoenix economy continues to improve, the luxury
price per square foot for homes over $500,000 gained
market in 2014. There are now 34% more active listings over
home market will probably continue to outperform the
6% between 2012 and 2013.
$500,000 than there were 12 months ago (38% if we exclude
more general housing market in 2014.
In the first half of 2014 things stabilized at this strong level
listings with a contract accepting backup offers). However
but did not advance any further. The first quarter started
the supply of active listings has dropped almost 25% since
well with total luxury sales up 10% from the first quarter of
peaking in April this year and is certainly not excessive.
2013. April and June were also very good months for luxury
Lender owned homes are less than 0.6% of active listings
home sales but May was disappointing. The market is
and short sales and pre-foreclosures are down from 3.5%
looking quieter as we wrap up the long hot summer
at the start of July 2013 to just 2.2% this year.
months. For the second quarter of 2014 luxury sales edged
Another sign that the market has cooled is that the
2% lower than the same quarter in 2013. For the 12 month
average cumulative days on market for closed luxury sales
period from July 2013 to June 2014 we saw $5.4 billion
is up to 137 days having been 113 this time last year.
total of $3.6 billion in sales. The annual average sales
Event Calendar
REAL ESTATE Corner
Art In The Olive Grove The Olive Mill | October 19 Artists.Superstitions@gmail.com | ArtistsoftheSuperstitions.com A diverse group of artists will represent all types of art media including painting, photography, wood, jewelry, pottery, glass and more. Artists of the Superstitions, is an organization of artists living in Apache Junction and Gold Canyon. They are committed to enriching the art culture of our diverse community, by providing opportunities for education, promoting artistic expression, selling, displaying, networking and appreciation in an enjoyable and supportive environment. Bentley Scottsdale Polo Championships: Horses & Horsepower WestWorld of Scottsdale Polo Field | October 25-26 480.423.1414 | ThePoloParty.com On Saturday the lineup features what will be the top women’s team in the world during 2014. They will take on the reigning event champions, the Clogau Wales Polo Team, which plays with Prince Charles, Prince William and Prince Harry, in a “Battle of the Sexes” match. An All-Star match between Saturday’s top players will take place alongside the USPA Governor’s Cup on Sunday. America’s top ranked professional, Julio Arellano, will play.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2014
PA R A D I S E VA L L E Y
Wendy Walker Fine Properties
#1 Agent For Coldwell Residential Brokerage in Arizona 2013
20 million reasons to work with Wendy Walker Fine Properties 9290 E Thompson Peak #120, Scottsdale
7601 N Central #21, Phoenix
4129 E Sierra Vista, Paradise Valley
12032 N 114th Way, Scottsdale
3800 E Lincoln Drive #5, Phoenix
7513 N Clearwater Parkway, Paradise Valley
3740 S McClelland, Chandler
12669 E Laurel Lane, Scottsdale
4800 N 68th Street, Paradise Valley
10347 N 50th Place, Paradise Valley
Canta Mia Lot #47, Buckeye
6539 N 31st Place, Biltmore
10801 E Happy Valley #60, Scottsdale
208 W Portland #161, Phoenix
9290 E Thompson Peak #478, Scottsdale
6727 N 63rd Place, Paradise Valley
11968 E Gold Dust, Scottsdale
...YTD Closed 2014
WONDROUS WINERIES Through The Grapevine
Who You Work With Matters WendyWalkerFineProperties.com
Wendy Walker
602.468.8888 Direct Wendy@WWFineProperties.com
If you plan to buy a new home this year, consider these reasons: • Mortgage rates are low. • Home financing is available in loan amounts up to $6 million, working with a Wells Fargo Private Mortgage Banker.
Richard E McDowell Private Mortgage Banker
480.348.5016 Direct | 480.323.5074 Cell | 866.675.1016 Fax 8601 N Scottsdale Rd, Suite 100, Scottsdale, AZ 85253
www.wfhm.com/richard-mcdowell | richard.mcdowell@wellsfargo.com NMLSR ID 134250 Information is accurate as of date of printing and is subject to change without notice. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.© 2011 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved. NMLSR ID 399801. 105351-12/13. If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.
Equity Title Biltmore Office
3125 E Lincoln Drive, Phoenix, AZ 85016
602.956.5141 Our experience makes the difference!
Produced by Desert Lifestyle Publishing • 480.460.0996 • www.DesertLifestyle.net
Cover Photography | Liana Harrison, Eclipse Photography and Marketing
All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.
Luxury Market Update Shifting Landscape
Craving Light & Fresh Fare? O.H.S.O. Brewery’s Poke’ Tuna
Stunning Tatum Foothills Oasis
9053 N 46th Street Phoenix, AZ 85028 Offered at $1.4m Exclusively By