Barry Cox

For those in the know, Desert Ridge in Phoenix is one of the areas hotspots for those interested in purchasing a nice residence in a killer area of town. Located in North Phoenix just off the 101 freeway and Tatum Blvd, Desert Ridge is home to the JW Marriott Desert Ridge, Wildfire Golf Club, and always popular Desert Ridge Marketplace. For those with children, Desert Ridge also has schools and day care facilities located conveniently within the community.

To read the rest of this story visit our Desert Ridge Foreclosures page. Alternatively, if you are ready to contact a Scottsdale real estate agent to start your search for a foreclosure or bank owned home in Scottsdale or the Phoenix metropolitan area, visit our Scottsdale Arizona Real Estate For Sale website.

Located in North Scottsdale, Kierland Greens condos and town homes continue to remain a favorite for those looking to purchase (or lease) a personal residence, second home, or investment property in "The Valley of the Sun." Kierland Greens possesses an unbeatable location and proximity to Scottsdale's most highly desired attractions and amenities. Here's our top 7 reasons to consider purchasing or leasing a Scottsdale condo in Kierland Greens.

1. Kierland Greens is less than a mile from Kierland Commons, which happens to be one of Arizona's trendiest and most popular outdoor shopping and dining destinations. At Kierland Commons you will find popular stores such as BCBG MAX AZRIA, Bebe, Charles David, Crate & Barrel, Ecco Shoes, Juicy Couture, Banana Republic and Cache. For those looking to sample some fine cuisine, restaurants such as Morton's Steak House, RA Sushi Bar and Grill, Zinc Bistro, North, The Cheesecake Factory, P.F. Chang's China Bistro, and Mastro's Ocean Club Fish House should not be missed. Kierland Commons also hosts a wide variety of holiday events for the whole family.
2. Avid golfers, or those just looking for great views will take pleasure in knowing that Kierland Greens is a golf course subdivision that borders the Kierland Golf Club. Typically, several condos are available with views of the course, Kierland Commons, and the Kierland Westin. The Kierland Golf Club was established in 1996, and was designed by course architect Scott Miller. Players have the opportunity to enjoy 3 distinct 9-hole courses which include the Acacia, Ironwood and Mesquite.
3. Kierland Greens is located just minutes from the Scottsdale Airpark, one of the areas primary sources for employment. By 2010, the airpark is forecast to boast over 25 million square feet of building space, housing 3,000 companies and 50,000 employees.
4. Perspective home buyers and tenants have a large variety of unique floor plans from which to choose. Condos range from a 1 bedroom at approximately 1150 square feet, to a 3 bedroom with over 2,000 square feet of living space. One unique thing to note is that all units include attached garages. This is not typical for many condos in the Scottsdale area.
5. For those looking for an investment opportunity, you would be hard pressed to do better than Kierland Greens. There are two ways to lease out these units. First, you can lease out the unit on an annual basis which will yield less money per month, but you will have the security of knowing how much cash will be coming in. The second, and in my opinion more popular option is to lease out the condo fully furnished. These units bring in top dollar during our peak winter months, and as an added benefit you can block out time for personal use between tenants. Personally, I've seen a few nice golf course units bring in as much as $5,000 per month, although these rental rates aren't typical.
6. Although nearly all condo and town home complexes in Scottsdale are professionally managed, Kierland Greens is on a whole different level from what you generally find. From the moment you enter the gated community, you will notice the amount of care that goes into maintaining the lush green grass, abundance of flowers and other desert foliage. The community center which includes a pool, spa, fitness center and barbecue area was reconditioned in 2008 and is beautiful. There's even a full-time security guard that patrols the premises to maintain the integrity of the property.
7. Scottsdale has not been immune to the nationwide housing market problems, and recently a few foreclosures have been popping up in Kierland Greens. At the present time, two foreclosures are readily available under $300,000 (both 2 bedroom / 2 bath units). These units represent price points that have not been seen in the complex since approximately 2004.

A couple of additional complexes in the area worth considering include Kierland Heritage and The Landmark Condominiums.

Barry Cox is a Scottsdale Realtor who works with a select number of clients interested in Scottsdale real estate and homes for sale and Kierland real estate and homes for sale . He can be reached through his websites, or directly at 480.209.6277.

Scottsdale Arizona has long been considered a top destination for those looking to escape the harsh and long winters associated with many regions around the country. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, and an average temperature of 68 degrees in our coldest winter months, it's easy to see why. But before you pack your bermuda shorts and sunglasses, take the time to review some of our favorite Scottsdale activities.

1. Arizona is home to over 300 golf courses, and many of the premiere courses are located in Scottsdale. Although the list is long, our favorite public courses would have to be the Kierland Golf Club (Mesquite, Ironwood and Acacia courses), TPC of Scottsdale, and the Grayhawk Golf Club (Talon and Raptor courses). Kierland Golf Club (480) 922-9283, TPC Scottsdale (888) 400-4001, Grayhawk Golf Club (480) 502-1800

2. For something a little different be sure to check out the Scottsdale Gun Club. The range is air conditioned and you don't need to be a member to use the facilities. The "machine gun adventures" program is very popular allowing for you to experience some of today's most highly advanced fully automatic military and law enforcement firearms. Scottsdale Gun Club (480) 348-1111

3. Casino Arizona has two convenient locations in Scottsdale. Both are located just off the 101 freeway for easy access and boast a wide variety of slot machines, black jack tables, poker rooms, restaurants, bars, spas, and entertainment venues. Don't miss the prime rib special at the Wandering Horse Cafe, served up daily. Casino Arizona (480) 850-7777

4. Greasewood Flat located in North Scottsdale is much more than just a restaurant and bar, it's an experience that should not be missed. During the Arizona Territory days, Reatta Pass was an old stage coach stop where travelers stopped for a hearty meal after a tough day of traveling. Portions of the adobe walls and old stone foundation still exist making Greasewood Flat the most authentic "cowboy" restaurant in the valley. Prepare to enjoy a tasty burger as well as some live entertainment at "America's most beautiful natural outdoor desert dining room." Greasewood Flat (480) 585-7277

5. For those with the shopping bug, may we suggest Kierland Commons. This trendy shopping destination is located near the Scottsdale Air Park and includes stores such as Juicy Couture, Cache, BCBG Max AZRIA and Coach. The variety of restaurants is equally impressive and distinctive with eateries such as Zinc Bistro, North, Mastro's Ocean Club Fish House and Morton's Steakhouse. Kierland Commons (480) 348-1577

6. Although not located in the city limits, we would highly recommend taking a trip out to see the good people at Desert Skydiving Center in Buckeye, Arizona. It's well worth the trip for this once in a lifetime experience. What could be better than jumping out of a perfectly good airplane at 11,000 feet? A tandem skydive runs about $180.00, but the memories will last a lifetime. Desert Skydiving Center (800) 441-JUMP

7. Crackerjax is located in North Scottsdale and offers fun for the whole family. Attractions include a miniature golf course, batting cages, driving range, bumper boat lagoon, volleyball courts, video and game center as well as a Can-AM style go-kart track. Crackerjax typically closes at 10:00 pm, although closing hours have been extended to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Crackerjax (480) 998-2800

Barry Cox is a Scottsdale Realtor who works with those looking to purchase and sell Scottsdale homes and real estate. Some of the communities he specializes in are DC Ranch, Grayhawk, Scottsdale Mountain real estate and McCormick Ranch real estate and homes for sale.

Buying a Scottsdale condominium (or condo for those hip to the lingo) has always been very popular in Arizona. There are many perks with condominium living, and the low maintenance lifestyle and associated amenities appeal to a large variety of potential home buyers. Currently there are over 1,400 condos and town homes available in Scottsdale. With today's market conditions and low interest rates, there has never been a better time to consider purchasing a new condo in Scottsdale, AZ. But before you take the plunge, take the time to review our 7 buyers tips in preparation of starting your new home search.

1. Homeowners association dues (HOA, or Strata fees for those from Canada) are common place for those who purchase condos or town homes in Arizona. As a buyer you need to be aware of what these fees include. In most cases HOA dues include: water, sewer, trash, roof repair, roof replacement, exterior maintenance of the unit, common area maintenance and a blanket hazard insurance policy. In some cases your HOA fees could include cable and electricity. Be sure you know what your HOA dues include before purchasing your condo so you can budget accordingly.

2. Be sure to call the Homeowners Association prior to writing a contract on a potential property and inquire about the state of the "reserves" for the community you're interested in. If the association maintains adequate cash reserves you are less likely to be hit with a special assessment fee when the time comes for units to get new roofs, paint, or streets repaved (if the complex is gated). While you're at it, inquire as to whether there are any special assessments due, or if there are any known assessments that will be levied in the future. This could be material in your decision to write an offer on a new condo or town home.

3. Take the time to consider whether you would like a ground floor or upstairs unit. If you're an investor with intentions of leasing the condo, consider buying a unit on the ground floor. Many potential tenants either physically can't walk up stairs, or would just prefer not to. If you're just looking for a nice unit to enjoy, consider buying an upstairs unit. Upstairs units often have nice vaulted ceilings, and you won't have to listen to homeowners walking around above you. Also, be aware that if you purchase an upstairs unit, the Covenants Conditions and Restrictions (CC&R's) may prevent you from putting in that beautiful travertine or wood floor you have been dreaming about (due to noise concerns for the occupants located below the unit).

4. Most condos in Scotttsdale include one covered parking space, and a common parking area for additional vehicles. If you have a shiny new car you may want to consider a town home with a garage, 24 hour guard-gated community, or at the very least a gated community. These amenities usually come with a cost in the form of higher purchase prices or increased HOA dues. For those on a budget, consider a community that is not gated.

5. If you're a pet lover, check the CC&R's prior to writing your purchase offer. Many complexes have rules regarding the type of pets allowed as well as weight and size limitations for animals such as dogs.

6. Scottsdale condos and town homes offer a wide selection of amenities. It's not uncommon these days for complexes to not only have pools and spas, but business centers, fitness centers tennis courts, concierge services, movie rooms, bike rentals, video game rooms, billiard rooms and much more. Be sure to have your REALTOR find the complex that best suits your needs and lifestyle.

7. Always have a professional home inspection performed prior to the end of the inspection period. Not only does this give you peace of mind regarding your investment, but also gives you an opportunity to have the seller repair any defective items prior to the close of escrow. In addition, it's always a good idea to verify that your home inspector carries the ASHI designation.

Barry Cox is a Scottsdale Realtor who specializes in Scottsdale real estate and Scottsdale homes for sale. Some of the commuinities Barry specializes in are DC Ranch Real Estate, McCormick Ranch, Scottsdale Ranch, as well as other various communities throughout the Scottsdale area. Barry can be reached through his website or direct at 480-209-6277 .

Located in North Scottsdale just a few miles east of the 101 freeway and Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd is the McDowell Mountain Ranch Park and Aquatic Center. Opened in early 2007, the center has quickly become a favorite of children and adults alike.

The aquatic and fitness center account for approximately 17 acres of the 75 acre campus. The aquatic center is anchored by a 13 lane competition pool with dive well where visitors can lap swim. Make sure to give the facility a quick call before heading to the pool for your lap swims as local high school swim teams, diving teams and synchronized swim teams make use of the pool for practices and competitions.

For the kids (and kids at heart), the aquatic center includes a leisure pool with beach like zero-depth entry and spray pad, 600 foot lazy river, and the city's first tube slide. There are also several grassy areas with plenty of shade and a party island with seating at the lazy river.

Scottsdale Healthcare and the City of Scottsdale parks and Recreation have teamed up to provide a first class fitness center. The facility includes free weights, cardiovascular machines, machine weights and a variety of fitness, nutritional and wellness classes.

The McDowell Mountain Ranch Park and Aquatic center is also home to a 16,000 square foot skate park which features the city's only "street course." Kids love the 6 rails, 7 ledges, 9 stair and the fact that the pool is right next door. The facility is fenced, lighted, and better yet, free! All skateboarders and inline skaters are welcome, but bmx bikes are not allowed due to safety concerns.

Additional facilities you will find at the park are 4 soccer fields, and 2 ball fields. Some of the fields are lighted, and public restrooms are available.

The City of Scottsdale has done a great job keeping the aquatic and fitness center affordable for residents and nonresidents alike. No membership is required and daily fees for adult lap swim are $2.00 resident, $3.00 nonresident per visit. Children, age 17 and under pay just $1.00 resident or $1.50 nonresident per visit. Adult public swim is $6.00 resident and $9.00 nonresident per visit. Children under 18 public swim is $4.00 resident and $6.00 nonresident per visit. The city also offers a Scottsdale Summer Family Pass to the facility which can save families a considerable amount of money.

For those looking for some alternative activities while their children enjoy the offerings of the park, we would suggest playing a round of golf at the Sanctuary Golf Course, enjoying a book at the award winning Arabian Library (a quick walk from the park), or sampling some cuisine at some of the locals favorite restaurants such as Flo's Chinese or Nick's Italian Restaurant.

McDowell Mountain Ranch Park and Aquatic Center

15525 N. Thompson Peak Parkway
Scottsdale, AZ 85260

480.312.6677

Barry Cox is a Scottsdale Real Estate agent who works with a select number of clients who are looking to buy or sell Mcdowell Mountain Ranch real estate, McCormick Ranch real estate, Grayhawk real estate and DC Ranch real estate.