Front Door Tucson

A Prospective Seller Asks: Who is Buying in Tucson Right Now?

2012-02-28T09:08:00.000-07:00

I am seeing three interesting groups of buyers in the Tucson market:

Investors, who seem to be buying for rental investment rather than to "fix and flip."
First-time buyers, who recognize that with low home prices and low interest rates their mortgage payment may be lower than the rent they have been paying.
Retirees and those I term "near-retirees." Near-retirees are buyers who may be 2 to 5 years away from retirement, usually still live and work in their home city but recognize that it is a good time to lock in that future Tucson retirement home now while rates and prices are low.

They are all looking for homes right-priced to the current market and in good condition. The first timers and retirees especially are looking for homes with up-to-date features rather than fixer uppers.

Fun Things in Tucson: The Pima Air & Space Museum

2012-02-27T20:57:00.000-07:00

Did you know that right here in Tucson we have the third largest air and spacecraft museum in the country with over 300 aircraft? Eclipsed only by the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum and the US Air Force museum at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, the Pima Air and Space Museum was founded in 1976 and is the Tucson home of some classic military aircraft coming from the DM "boneyard."

KC 135 Tanker

We paid a visit to the Pima Air and Space Museum over the weekend and I was impressed at the growth in size of the collections, quality of the displays and the new buildings housing special collections and aircraft.

B-17G Bomber

You can also take a tram tour of the museum site which takes just over an hour. Our tram guide was an Air Force veteran who told great stories about each of the planes we passed. Of special interest to us was the restored B-17 bomber like the ones my father worked on as a Army Air Corps corporal in England during World War II.

The Pima Air and Space Museum is located at 6000 E Valencia Rd (between I-10 and Kolb). Information on hours and tours can be found on their website: Pima Air & Space Museum

Tip for Tax Time

2012-02-26T21:14:00.000-07:00

If you bought or refinanced your Tucson home in 2011, don't forget to mention that to your accountant or tax preparer. In addition to the mortgage interest deduction, you may qualify for deductions on "points" paid on your home loan.

January Tucson MLS Sales Stats: Mixed Messages

2012-02-25T11:34:00.000-07:00

The January sales statistics in the Tucson MLS show that the average sale price was down 2.7% from the previous month, but the median sale price was up 4.17% from December. Let the statisticians argue which is the most accurate reflection of the market, but we won't have a definite trend until both sets of figures are moving in the same general direction for a number of months.
The number of homes sold in January (915) was down 4.79% from the previous month but up 17.3% from the same month in 2011.

Three statistics and trends that do stand out:

Two thirds of homes sold in January sold for less than $160,000. That price range is where the active market is right now. Homes in that range that are correctly priced for the market and in good condition are often selling in a matter of days.
Cash is king! 37% of January home sales in the Tucson MLS were cash transactions.
The number of homes actively on the market has dropped for 13 of the last 14 months and is at the lowest point since September 2005. There are now 4840 homes on the market.

To see the full January Tucson homes report, click on this link to the Tucson MLS January Report

Interest Rates Trend Up from Historic Lows: Market and Economy Inprovements Cited

2012-02-24T06:24:00.000-07:00

30-year fixed rate mortgages were up this week from their at-or-near record lows of the past three weeks to an average of 3.95%. That is according to the weekly survey of the primary mortgage market by Freddie Mac. The increase was attributed to improvements in the economy and in the housing market. The National Association of Realtors reported that existing home sales were the strongest since May 2010 and the Mortgage Bankers Association reported that the percentage of loans that were seriously delinquent dropped to their lowest quarterly level since the start of 2009.

Happy 100th Birthday Arizona!

2012-02-14T09:40:00.000-07:00

Tucson and the Santa Catalina Mountains from Gates Pass

Having grown up in Kentucky, which joined the union in 1792, I find it hard to imagine that Arizona is just now celebrating its 100th anniversary of statehood. I see the changes that have occurred since my first visit to Tucson in the late 1960's (I was a mere child of course) but I will let the late Barry Goldwater speak for what he saw as the future of Arizona...in an article he wrote in 1962 on the occasion of Arizona's 50th anniversary of statehood. It is very interesting reading and he has proven to be quite prescient.

Barry Goldwater's Crystal Ball - Arizona Daily Star

Statistic of the Day...

2012-02-06T10:58:00.002-07:00

I won't even comment on this one...

30% of Americans, given the choice between their dream home and a perfect spouse, would choose the dream home, according to a recent survey.

Mortgage Rates Hit Record Lows...Again

2012-02-02T22:16:00.001-07:00

After a few fluctuating weeks, mortgage interest rates took another dip into record territory this week. Freddie Mac's weekly survey of primary mortgage rates showed rates on 30-year fixed rate mortgages were down to an average 3.87 percent for the week ending February 2. That is down from 3.98 percent last week and is the lowest since Freddie Mac began tracking such data. Rates on 15-year fixed rate mortgages this week were down to an amazing 3.14 percent from 3.24 percent last week. Slower than expected growth in the economy was cited as the reason for the decline in rates.

Qualified buyers are taking advantage of these continued low rates and I am seeing noticeably more activity, particularly on Tucson homes priced under $150,000. There are a lot of first time buyers and prospective retirees out there looking right now.

Support our Tucson Eateries: La Fuente

2012-01-19T15:42:00.000-07:00

La Fuente Restaurant on North Oracle has always had a special place in my heart as the site of my first taste of Mexican food. It was also my first visit to Tucson (my cousins invited me out when I was 14) and I marveled at the new taste sensations, the heat and of course the mariachi music. And all these years later, I still love their mole, cheese crisps, the lunch buffet and of course, the mariachis.

The current economy has not been kind to many of our long-time local eateries, so I would encourage you to revisit some of your old favorites, and rekindle those memories of your first visits to our wonderful Tucson. Click for more info on La Fuenta

Fun Things in Tucson: The Rogue Theatre Presents Shipwrecked!

2012-01-18T22:38:00.000-07:00

What fun it is to watch the joyful faces of the audience members each night during Shipwrecked! Whether it's diving for pearls in the Coral Sea, singing sea shanties with a trusted canine companion or living with Aborigines (and more), Donald Margulies has given us the perfect playground to celebrate the life of one of the most colorful men of Victorian England and the adventurer that lives inside all of us.

And there are only four performances left (really, only three because Thursday is already sold out)! Get 'em while they're hot! Join the Rogue for the final performances of this show.

Click for more info on Shipwrecked!

December Tucson MLS Sales Stats: Watching for Trends

2012-01-17T10:59:00.000-07:00

I don't see any dramatic changes in the December Tucson MLS sales statistics, but there are some interesting trends and some that may developing. The median sale price of $120,000 was down $2000 from November, but taken with the previous two months show a bit of stability. The average sale price was up just a bit (1.92%) from November, which was the third straight monthly increase in the average sale price. Are we bouncing around a price bottom? Stay tuned...

A definite trend is the continuing decline for the eleventh month in a row in the number of homes actively listed for sale. This despite the fact that total unit sales were down 5.32% in December from the previous month. Is this because potential sellers are holding properties off the market in anticipation of a market change, or are the banks holding off on putting their foreclosed properties on the market?

To see the full December Tucson homes MLS report, click on this link to the Tucson MLS November report.

Moving With Fido - Realty Times

2012-01-16T11:34:00.000-07:00

Zeke, Dog of the Desert

I have only had to move once with a dog, and it was a short move (my escape from Phoenix to Tucson many years ago) and an easy one to my new Tucson house. My hound dog Zeke just sat in the front seat next to me during the drive down I-10, no doubt contemplating his new life poolside in Tucson.

Pet have their routines and a major move can be very stressful. But with planning and consideration for their needs, the move can go well. Talk to your vet as well about getting copies of health records, and while you are at it have your pet micro chipped in case they inadvertently wander during your move. Realty Times has a great article on moving with your pets. Read more by clicking the link: Realty Times - Moving With Fido

Enjoy Your Woodburning Fireplace, But Keep It Safe

2012-01-11T22:17:00.000-07:00

Even in our desert Tucson homes, we love our wood-burning fires on our cold (relatively speaking) winter nights. We might have the windows cracked open, but many of us still like that warm and cozy feeling that a fireplace offers on our cooler nights.

But how often do we think of getting those fireplaces and chimneys inspected and cleaned? We don't use them often but in Tucson we do tend to use them for years without giving a thought to potential buildups of creosote and soot inside the chimney. Those deposits occur over time and can produce a chimney fire if not cleaned.

So whether you use your fireplace on a regular basis or even just occasionally, it is a good idea to get it checked and cleaned on a regular basis. The Southern Arizona Better Business Bureau lists several local chimney sweeps (yep, they still call them that) that you can check out: Tucson Better Business Bureau

30-year Rates Hit Another Low. Is It Now Cheaper to Buy than Rent?

2011-12-31T09:00:00.000-07:00

The average 30-year mortgage rate fell to a record low 3.91%, on December 23 according to the weekly Freddie Mac survey. The previous low was 3.94% set just a few weeks ago. With Tucson home prices at levels we haven't seen for 10 years and record low interest rates, Tucson real estate is more affordable than in a long time.

Many renters are finding that it is now cheaper to buy than to rent. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has an interesting "renting vs buying" calculator on its website, the link to which is at the end of this article. If you have children, friend or coworkers still renting, then suggest they check it out. After all, their monthly rent check IS paying a mortgage...that of their landlord.

Click here for the HUD "renting vs buying" calculator.

Thank you...for 2011

2011-12-27T14:35:00.000-07:00

Thank You!...to my buyers, sellers, lenders, home inspectors, escrow officers, fellow agents and especially those of you who have been so kind as to refer friends, relatives and neighbors to me. It has been a good 2011and I am grateful to all of those who made it so.

And it has been a fun year in Tucson real estate as well. I worked with everyone from first time buyers to retirees making their move to Tucson. What I most enjoy is that look of excitement on the faces of both first-timers and home-buying veterans as I hand them their keys to their new homes.

So thank you for 2011 and here's to a happy 2012 for us all!

A Seller Asks: Should I Keep My House on the Market Over the Holidays?

2011-12-17T21:45:00.000-07:00

I understand...your Tucson house has been on the market and the thought of more potential buyers tromping through over the holidays may be more than you can bear. But the holidays can be a great time to find your buyer.

With interest rates at near record lows and the number of Tucson homes available on the market dropping, there are a lot of motivated buyers out there and fewer homes for them to look at. Keep in mind that buyers who keep looking at Tucson real estate over the holidays are likely to be more serious in their search.

And the most important reason to keep your house on the market is the large number of visitors to Tucson this time of year. These are people from colder climes who may have just decided to find their piece of our Arizona paradise. And the holidays sometimes put them in the mood to picture their next Christmas in their Tucson home.

The bottom line is that you still do want to sell the house and it certainly isn't going to sell if it is OFF the market. So my recommendation is to keep it on the market through the holidays, make the house look its holiday best, enlist the family to help neaten up when potential buyers are heading over and bake a few extra cookies for these additional holiday guests.

November Tucson MLS Statistics Released: Median Sale Price Up for Second Month

2011-12-16T16:13:00.000-07:00

The November MLS sales stats are out and we have now seen a very slight uptick in the median sale price of a Tucson house for the second month in a row. The median sale price edged up 1.67% in November but keep in mind that is still down 12.8% from the previous November.

The other bit of good news (at least for sellers) is that the number of homes actively listed on the Tucson homes market is down just over 30% from a year ago AND the number of homes sold in November was up 27% from a year ago. And the number of new homes coming on the market was down 23% in November from the year before.

Before we proclaim the end of the down market, keep in mind we will likely see lots of fluctuations in the Tucson homes market for some time to come. We have been seeing similar patterns for the last three years...where prices decline for months in a row followed by a month of two of a slight increase.

Click the link for the full November report, including the number of listings and solds in your zip code.

Tucson MLS Home Sales Stats for November 2011

And if you want to know more about what's going on in your own neighborhood, just drop me an email and I will check it out.

30-Year Fixed-Rate Mortgage Matches All-Time Record Low at 3.94 Percent - Realty Times

2011-12-16T06:33:00.000-07:00

And once again, home loan rates are at record lows. It may be a good time to refinance your Tucson home, and a lot of buyers are taking advantage of these rates to buy their new Tucson houses.

Realty Times - 30-Year Fixed-Rate Mortgage Matches All-Time Record Low at 3.94 Percent

Just Sold: 2561 E Monte Vista

2011-12-12T22:52:00.001-07:00

A great fixer-upper home in a terrific mid-town Tucson neighborhood, close to UA and only a half block from the neighborhood park. This brick two-bedroom/1 bath home retains a lot of the cool mid-century features and already has a new roof and upgraded electric service.

Holiday Shopping: Tucson Style

2011-12-12T22:29:00.000-07:00

For memorable holiday gifts, look no further than some great Tucson traditions that also have wonderful gift shops. Books, crafts, foods and jewelry can all be found at the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum, Native Seeds Search, Tucson Botanical Gardens, Tucson Museum of Art and other local organizations.

Many of these gifts are produced right here in Southern Arizona and will bring joy and fun to any Tucson home.

And a gift certificate to one of our local restaurants is always a welcome gift and helps support Tucson businesses.

Gates Pass Open House This Sunday

2011-12-09T10:00:00.000-07:00

The weather looks to be gorgeous this Sunday, so take a drive into the Tucson Mountains and out Gates Pass Road to see this classic Tucson Mountains burnt adobe home. I will be holding it open from 1pm to 4pm.

Drive West on Gates Pass Road and turn right on Via Roma just pass the International Wildlife Museum. My open house signs will lead you the rest of the way. And click here for more details and photos. 740 N Via Roma

Holiday Shop at the Santa Cruz Farmers Market Today

2011-12-08T07:37:00.001-07:00

The Santa Cruz Farmers Market, located in the Mercado on Congress St just West of I-10, is a great place to do your holiday shopping. There are lots of locally-made products including food products, coffee, soaps and handmade items.

And eat healthy for your holiday meals with fresh local produce, eggs, meats and breads.

Remember the market is on winter hours and is open from 3pm to 6pm each Thursday.

Click the link for details on what will be available today. This is one of the best farmers markets around and your Tucson home for good fresh fruits and vegetables. See you there! Santa Cruz Farmers Market This Week

Tucson Favorites: San Xavier Mission Christmas Concerts

2011-12-07T22:50:00.000-07:00

On three magical December Tucson nights, the Patronato San Xavier's annual Christmas fundraising concerts at the San Xavier mission fill the 18th century church with candlelight and some of the most wonderful Christmas music I have ever heard.

The Tucson Boys Choir and Sons of Orpheus Mens Chorus join with guest soloists to raise funds for the ongoing restoration of the mission. Sit and reflect on the season and the history, as you listen to the great music. The 15th annual concert series takes place at the old mission on December 13th through the 15th. Tickets go fast so contact Vern Lamplot (520.407.6130) at the Patronato San Xavier.

How to Become a Desert Dweller - Arizona Daily Star

2011-12-04T14:55:00.000-07:00

As many of us moved to our Tucson homes from elsewhere, we had to learn the tricks of living in the desert. My number one suggestion? Always carry a comb. To find out why (and other handy things to know,) click on the series of illustrations by David Fitzsimmons in the linked article below.
How to Become a Desert Dweller - Arizona Daily Star

The Pacific storm moved East and the Tucson sun came out this morning. The rain will be good for our Spring wildflower show.

2011-12-04T14:07:00.001-07:00

Foggy Tucson with the snowy Catalina Mountains beyond

Twin Hills wrapped in wisps of fog as seen from from Tucson's Gates Pass

Interest Rates Settle In Around 4%

2011-12-02T17:53:00.000-07:00

The Freddie Mac weekly market survey shows average fixed mortgage rates relatively unchanged this week. 30-year fixed rate mortgages were up just a bit to an average of 4.0%. Last year at this time, the average was 4.46%. Low rates and low prices continue to make houses in Tucson extremely affordable, but lenders are taking a closer look at potential buyer's qualifications.

Just Listed! Gates Pass Mediterranean Home at 740 N Via Roma

2011-12-02T17:28:00.000-07:00

We just put this Tucson home on the market in the scenic Gates Pass area of the Tucson Mountains. Convenient to Downtown and UA, this house could have been designed for entertainment with the large Spanish Colonial-inspired living room, arched portico and spacious brick patio areas. For details and more pictures, click here: 740 N Via Roma

Just Sold: 1934 W Anklam

2011-11-30T17:01:00.000-07:00

This buyer was a delight to work with and I am happy we found this great Tucson townhome so convenient to work, friends, and Tumamoc Hill.

Nature Conservancy Hosts Rainwater Harvesting Demonstration Tour on Friday

2011-11-23T09:08:00.000-07:00

Do you feel guilty watching all that rainwater from your Tucson house run off into the street? The Nature Conservancy will be hosting a docent-led tour of their rainwater harvesting projects the Friday after Thanksgiving. Starting at 8:00am on November 25, the event is free! The Nature Conservancy is located at 1510 E Fort Lowell. For more information, call 622-3861
Click here for more info on the Nature Conservancy's Rainwater Harvesting Project

Knock on wood, Tucson real estate market inches closer to stabilization - Inside Tucson Business

2011-11-18T12:22:00.000-07:00

Yet another view on the Tucson house and real estate market. Could we really be stabilizing at a near bottom?

Knock on wood, Tucson real estate market inches closer to stabilization - Inside Tucson Business: Construction / Real Estate:

The Rogue Theatre's Production of As I Lay Dying. See It This Weekend!

2011-11-17T10:00:00.000-07:00

Tucson's Rogue Theatre has done it again with an outstanding production of William Faulkner's As I Lay Dying. This is the last weekend, so use the link below to buy tickets at the Rogue's website now. The Rogue Theatre is the Tucson home of thoughtful theatre, and is located in the Historic Y building on University Boulevard, just west of 4th Avenue.

Link to The Rogue Theatre's As I Lay Dying

Arizona Daily Star Review of As I Lay Dying

30-Year Fixed-Rate Mortgage Averages 3.99 Percent - Realty Times

2011-11-11T19:24:00.000-07:00

This week's average rates on 30-year fixed rate mortgages dropped below 4% for only the second time...ever! The 3.99% average is only slightly higher than the 3.94% average rate recorded just four weeks ago.

And between the low interest rates and low home prices, the National Association of Realtors' housing affordability index is also at its 3rd highest reading. Low Tucson home prices, coupled with the low interest rates are helping a lot of first time buyers get into Tucson homes. Click the link below for more information on the low interest rates.

Realty Times - 30-Year Fixed-Rate Mortgage Averages 3.99 Percent

October Tucson Home Sales Statistics Released: Median Sale Price Up Slightly

2011-11-10T16:54:00.000-07:00

The October Tucson MLS sales stats are out and if you are a seller it is a little bit of good news this month. After hitting a ten year low in September, the median sale price was up ever so slightly (just over 2%) in October to $120,000. That is still down 14% from the same month a year ago but it does reverse a five month decline.

Click the link for the full October report, including the number of listings and solds in your zip code.

Tucson MLS Home Sales Stats for October 2011

And if you want to know more about what's going on in your own neighborhood, just drop me an email and I will check it out.

Just Sold! 5120 W Via Mallorca

2011-11-05T08:42:00.000-07:00

This classic Tucson Mountains burnt adobe home sits on just over an acre with gorgeous views of Tucson lights and the Catalina Mountains. The large pool area is great for entertaining. This Tucson home features 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, and really cool patios and decks over looking the city. Just sold for $355,000.

"Aging-in-Place" Renovations

2011-11-03T08:53:00.000-07:00

More people who love theirTucson homes, neighborhoods and views are renovating and updating rather than buying anewer house. A smart approach is to takeinto consideration those cool design elements you desire, at the same timeincluding features that will allow you to continue to enjoy your home as youage

For example, considereliminating steps by filling in that sunken living room. Replacing tubs with walk-in showers, doorknobs with stylish levers and outdoor steps with gently-sloped walks willenhance your comfort and safety as years pass. Age-appropriate improvements alsomake your Tucson house more marketable when you do decide to sell.

You know I would love to sellyou a new house. But if you are alreadyin the house of your dreams, it makes sense to plan your renovations wisely toextend your enjoyment for many years to come.

Best day to list real estate for sale: Friday | Inman News

2011-10-24T12:38:00.000-07:00

Does it make a difference which day of the week your Tucson house hits the market? The article linked below reports that homes in 16 selected US markets listed on Fridays are more likely to sell within 90 days, and for an ever-so-slightly higher price.

That does make some sense in that many agents, just like Tucson real estate agents are doing their online MLS searches just before the weekend. And in our Tucson homes MLS, fresh listings receive a bright green "New Listing" indication online, gathering even more attention.

But in my humble opinion, particularly in a slower market such as Tucson, the two most important factors for a faster sale are a realistic asking price reflecting recent comparable sales in the area, and the condition of the house. But click, read the article for yourself, and let me know what YOU think.

Best day to list real estate for sale: Friday | Inman News

Tucson Meet Yourself is this Weekend!

2011-10-14T19:13:00.000-07:00

I love the music and art, but for me this weekend’s TucsonMeet Yourself is all about the food. AsI graze through the dozens of food booths sampling cuisine from all over theworld, I am always watching for my last stop…the “sweet potato pie ladies.” I never remember what organization theyrepresent, but there they always are with those sweet rich pies.

So go this weekend and celebrate the diverse folk and ethniccommunities that make Tucson such a great place to live. And do keep an eye out for the ladies withthe pies.

Tucson Meet Yourself is this Friday through Sunday(Oct 14-16) downtown. Check out theirwebsite for more information and a handy map of all the festivities: Tucson Meet Yourself

September Tucson Home Sales Statistics Released

2011-10-13T09:23:00.000-07:00

The September Tucson MLS sales stats are out and if you are a seller it is not terrific news. The median sale price was $117,500 which is down 3.85% from August and down 19.44% from September 2010. This is the lowest monthly median sale price since early 2001.

Now for you potential buyers...read that same statistic and think. Will we look back someday and recognize this as a real opportunity for buyers?

Click the link for the full September report, including the number of listings and solds in your zip code.

Tucson MLS Home Sales Stats for September 2011

And if you want to know more about what's going on in your own neighborhood, just drop me an email and I will check it out.

Fall Plant Sale at Desert Survivors Native Plant Nursery

2011-10-06T07:05:00.000-07:00

Desert Survivors Native Plant Nursery has over 400 species of bio-regional plants and trees for our Sonoran desert climate and a knowledgeable staff as well. Their Fall Plant Sale is this weekend, Saturday, October 8 and Sunday the 9th. And they are a non-profit whose sales support programs for children and adults with disabilities.

If you have been putting off landscaping for your Tucson house, this is a good weekend and great opportunity to get started and help a worthy Tucson organization. Desert Survivors is located at 1020 W Starr Pass Boulevard, just West of I-10.

Click for more information: Desert Survivors Native Plant Nursery

Santa Cruz Farmers Market Changes Hours

2011-10-06T06:16:00.000-07:00

The Santa Cruz Farmers Market, located in the Mercado on Congress St just West of I-10, is moving to winter hours today.

For the next few months, the market will be open from 3pm to 6pm each Thursday.

Click the link for details on what will be available today. This is one of the best farmers markets around and your Tucson home for good fresh fruits and vegetables. See you there!
Santa Cruz Farmers Market

Pima County Property Taxes: Watch Your Mail

2011-10-04T14:14:00.000-07:00

You and 450,999 other property owners should have received your Pima County property tax bill by now and probably are still trying to make heads or tails of it. While the full cash value as determined by the assessor on most homes in Tucson declined, the amount of taxes owed actually depends on where you are in Pima County.

As County Administrator Chuck Huckelberry points out in his 2011 property tax letter (click to see the full Letter from County Administrator Chuck Huckelberry ), Pima County is responsible for only four of the 95 possible tax levies that may show up on your tax bill.

So how do they figure the assessed value of your Tucson home? Well, it is a lengthy process involving the features of your particular property, recent sales in the area and more. For a full explanation click the following link to the Pima County Assessor's own detailed explanation:

Pima County Assessor: How They Figure Your Property Valuation

And finally, if you are not happy with the valuation put on your property you might want to check out the following link that describes the assessor's appeals process. Just keep in mind that your appeal must be filed no later than 60 days after the mail date on your"Notice of Valuation" or the deadline date indicated on the notice itself. Pima County Assessor: How to Appeal

For more information, call the county's taxpayer assistance hotline at 740-8650.

How Low Can They Go? (yet again)

2011-09-30T12:16:00.000-07:00

Last week I blogged about home loan rates hitting a record low. And I am back this week to report once again...home loan rates hit yet another record low this week. Freddie Mac's Primary Mortgage Market Survey for the week shows the conventional 30-year fixed rate loan averaged an all-time record low at 4.01 percent. Wow...

I know people are skeptical of our economy and the housing market right now. But at some point down the road, a lot of people are going to look back at these loan rates and Tucson house prices and give themselves a little kick.

Santa Cruz Farmers Market: 4 to 7pm Thursday

2011-09-28T15:45:00.000-07:00

It is Fall back east, but there are still lots of good summer vegetables this week at the Santa Cruz Farmers Market, Tucson's home for quality fresh food. Tomatoes, green peppers and squash top my list to buy. Located in and around the new Mercado, just west of I-10 on Congress, the market is open from 4 to 7pm.

Click here for their weekly newsletter:
Santa Cruz Farmers Market Newsletter

JUST SOLD in the Tucson Mountains: $280,000

2011-09-27T15:59:00.000-07:00


4741 W Placita de Suerte near scenic Gates Pass

Privacy and quiet on an acre-plus of natural Sonoran desert. This beautiful burnt adobe Tucson home with relaxing pool has beautiful views of the Tucson and Catalina Mountains. All this and only minutes to UA and Downtown.

How Low Can They (interest rates, that is) Go?

2011-09-17T11:52:00.000-07:00

I made a joke at a recent Chamber of Commerce breakfast meeting here in Tucson that if interest rates got any lower, the lenders' would be paying homebuyers to take their money.

Well, we are not quite there yet, but Freddie Mac's weekly survey of interest rates show an average for 30-year fixed rate loans of 4.09%! Of course, every lender has different requirements, fees and points so your quoted rate may be higher. But still...wow! (The rates when I bought my first house were 14%!!)

The Federal Reserve recently made a public commitment for low rates to help the economy for the next year or two, but I would be amazed if home loan rates stay at this record low level for any length of time.

So if a refinance of your current home loan, or the purchase of a new Tucson home is in your plans, you may want to talk with your lender soon. Then give me a call and let's find that perfect Tucson house for you.

Tucson's Rogue Theatre Presents Shaw's Major Barbara

2011-09-16T11:09:00.000-07:00

Click the link for more infomation on Major Barbara and The Rogue Theatre:

Major Barbara at The Rogue Theatre in Tucson's Historic Y

I saw the Rogue Theatre's current production of George Bernard Shaw's Major Barbara last weekend and it is just wonderful. Funny, thought-provoking and just so well-acted, Major Barbara runs through next weekend. Don't take my word for it. Check the following reviews from the Arizona Star and the Tucson Weekly.

"This is one you don't want to miss" says the Arizona Daily Star

"It is as funny as it is thoughtful" says the Tucson Weekly

So if you are looking for something fun and thought-provoking this weekend, go see Major Barbara. Call or go online (Rogue Tickets) as tickets are going fast!

The Rogue Theatre is home to Tucson's highest quality theatre, emphasizing quality language and literature, wonderful performers and challenging ideas.

Hot Off the Presses from TAR: August Tucson Real Estate Statistics

2011-09-09T13:10:00.000-07:00

The Tucson Association of Realtors has just released the August sales statistics.

August Market Stats from the Tucson Association of Realtors

Prices continue to decline...no real surprise there. The median sales price for August was $122,200, down 2.24% from July and a full 18.94% from August 2010. The median sale price is now just under what it was 10 years ago.

Total unit sales for August (1106) were down 1.6% from July but up 25.4% from August 2010. Keep in mind the August 2010 total sales (882 units) may have been somewhat depressed by the early 2010 rush to get first-time buyers into homes in time to qualify for the Federal tax credit.

Active listings on the market in August were 5,167 which is also down from July (5,412) and down a whopping 27.94% from August 2010 when there were 7,170 homes on the market in the MLS. There are rumors of a rush of new foreclosures as the lenders clear up the paperwork management issues that have been so controversial, and resume the foreclosure process on many homes. Some say that real recovery in the real estate market will not happen until a large number of these foreclosures have moved through the system and been sold. Stay tuned!

Bisbee Bloomer's 10th Annual Garden Tour - September 10

2011-09-08T11:38:00.000-07:00

If it is getting a little warm around your Tucson home, head for the cooler climes of mile-high Bisbee this Saturday for the 10th annual Bisbee Bloomer's Garden Tour. This year the self-guided tour will feature gardens that survived those zero-degree nights back in February (when Tucson was still a balmy 17 degrees.)

Live music will be featured along the tour. This is a wonderful opportunity to see the variety of gardens, both drought-tolerant and traditional, that grace the hillside neighborhoods of historic Bisbee. The self-guided tour is only $10 and runs from 10 am to 4 pm this Saturday, September 10.

For more information, check their website at: Bisbee Bloomer's Garden Tour

Buying a Tucson Home in an HOA Community? Read the Fine Print!

2011-09-04T17:07:00.000-07:00

"Education is when you read the fine print. Experience is what you get when you don't." - Pete Seeger

Homeowners Association (HOA) rules and regs are probably not what the great American folk singer had in mind when he said that. But many are the homeowners who regret the experience gained from NOT reading the HOA rules and regs carefully before buying a house. HOA rules may restrict the colors you may paint your house, the size and type of trees in your yard, whether you may have pets, a pool, an RV, an in-home business, a basketball hoop or even park your car in your own driveway at night.

The general purpose of HOA rules is to protect property values by promoting some level of conformity in a neighborhood. After all who wants to live next to a garishly colored house with trash in the yard, dead trees, a motorhome parked crossways in the yard, and a car on blocks in the driveway in a permanent state of restoration?

The HOA Addendum to the Arizona Association of Realtors purchase contract requires that you receive a copy of the HOA rules and regs (most commonly known as CC&Rs) and financial information (including budget) from the Seller or the HOA management company after contract acceptance. If you decide you are not comfortable with those rules or any aspect of the HOA documents provided, you may then cancel the contract within five days of receipt of those documents.

The full list of HOA items to be disclosed to you is on the HOA Addendum that will be a part of your purchase contract if your prospective home is located within an HOA community. I also recommend that buyers talk with neighbors and officers of the HOA, and review copies of minutes of past HOA meetings.

So as Peter Seeger would recommend, read all of those documents carefully. Think into the future whether any of those rules will impact you and your way of life in your new Tucson home.

JUST SOLD in the Tucson Mountains! 5140 W Via Mallorca

2011-07-26T17:18:00.000-07:00

SOLD! $352,000

5140 W Via Mallorca just off Gates Pass Road

Beautifully updated in the Tucson Mountains, with gourmet kitchen, pool and views! A great home for entertaining.

Open House Saturday: 4741 W Placita de Suerte 1 to 4pm

2011-06-04T06:15:00.000-07:00

I am holding this wonderful burnt adobe Tucson home open this afternoon from 1 to 4pm. With the price just reduced to $10,000 below recent appraisal, this home should go fast. Set on a beautiful acre with city and mountain views, it features a backyard oasis with trees and a cool pool that will have you tempted to jump right in. Priced at $299,900.

Come on over and don't forget to call your friends who have always envied your wonderful life in the Gates Pass/Trails End area.

Just follow my signs West on Trails End from Camino de Oeste.

Kid's Off to College Next Fall? Why Pay the Landlord for Four (or more!) Years?

2011-05-21T07:10:00.000-07:00

Think tuition is high? College housing is also more expensive than ever. Students frequently take more than four years for an undergraduate degree and then choose to stay on for advanced degrees. So it may make sense to consider buying your student's housing rather than putting your money in the landlord's pocket.

Is your college student heading out of Tucson? I can do the research and put you in touch with a great Realtor at no cost to you.

Whether your student is looking for a Tucson home or one at college out of town, call me at (520) 820-7204 or pass my name on to a friend or relative who is facing the college housing crunch.

Open House Sunday: A Wonderful Tucson Home in the Tucson Mountains

2011-05-20T10:19:00.000-07:00

Stop by for a visit this Sunday. I will be holding this great Tucson home, 5140 W Via Mallorca open from 1 to 4pm. Set in Mountain Gardens just off Gates Pass Rd, this is a delightfully renovated burnt adobe home with pool, two great view porches and perfect for entertaining your friends and family.

Click the link for more details and photos, and come by for a visit.

5140 W Via Mallorca

5140 W Via Mallorca: Open House this Sunday 1pm to 4pm

2011-05-20T10:14:00.000-07:00

Click the link for more details and photos, and come by for a visit.

5140 W Via Mallorca

Tucson's The Lost Barrio

2011-05-17T09:02:00.000-07:00

Can't afford an exotic trip abroad this year? The next best thing is a trip to Tucson's own Lost Barrio. With a collection of stores featuring imports from Mexico, Asia, the Middle East and Africa, it can be your world tour staycation! Furniture, light fixtures, folk art and custom handcrafted furniture are available for your souvenir purchases.

Plan for a break in your world tour for lunch at Tooley's Cafe "Home of the Turkey Taco" and other good things. Find the Lost Barrio by taking Broadway east from downtown, then south on Park to the collection of old brick warehouses.

The Lost Barrio is a great place to shop for cool stuff for your home in Tucson.

Saturday Morning Visitors

2011-05-14T11:22:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning visitor 5/14/11

I am enjoying the deer visitors each morning and evening here in Gates Pass. This group stopped by early this morning after sunrise. But I know their visits to my hillside watering hole are a sign of little water further up in the Tucson mountains. Here's hoping for a generous monsoon season.

Westside's Mercado San Agustin Opens this Weekend!

2011-05-13T10:49:00.000-07:00

At long last, the Mercado San Agustin is opening this weekend. The public market will feature 18 businesses including La Estrella Bakery, Taqueria el Pueblito, Dolce Pastello and Sonora Sno Cones.

Located on West Congress just west of the Santa Cruz river, there will be good food and music featured in the grand opening this weekend. For more information, check out their website at Mercado San Agustin

This is a wonderful and convenient addition for those of us fortunate enough have Westside homes in Tucson.

Help Plant Trees at Camp Cooper

2011-05-12T09:22:00.000-07:00

One of the gems of the Gates Pass area is the Cooper Center for Environmental Learning. This wonderful facility off Trails End Road is administered by the University of Arizona with environmental programs for TUSD students.

And they are looking for some volunteer help on May 18th to help plant
23 1-gallon ironwood and mesquite trees that have been donated to the center. For more information, contact Colin Waite, Assistant Director of the Cooper Center at 743-7422. For more information on the Cooper Center, click the link: Cooper Center for Environmental Learning

Santa Cruz River Farmers Market Moves to Summer Hours

2011-05-11T10:02:00.000-07:00

The Santa Cruz Farmers Market is moving to Summer Hours and will be open from 4pm to 7pm each Thursday. Located on Speedway just West of the Santa Cruz river, the market has some great items this week as reported in their weekly email newsletter:

This week you can find leeks, red potatoes, sweet potatoes, chard, kale, Asian greens, lettuce, spinach, arugula, green onions, bulb onions, oranges, carrots, fennel, celery, beets, turnips, snow and snap peas, garlic, radishes, fava beans, nopalitos, oranges, sprouts, tomatoes, pecans, the first of the summer squash and more!.

And the big news is that the Santa Cruz Farmers Market will be moving soon to its new home at the Mercado San Agustin (100 S. Avenida del Convento), West of I-10 near the intersection of Congress and Grande. Check back here for more details on the exciting new location.

Just Listed: 5140 W Via Mallorca

2011-04-25T07:12:00.000-07:00

Click here for details of 5140 W Via Mallorca

Tucson's dramatic Gates Pass is the setting for this beautifully updated 3 bedroom/2 bath home. In a great neighborhood bordering Tucson Mountain Park yet only minutes to Downtown and UA.

The updated gourmet kitchen will be a gathering place for your friends.

Spacious living room with beehive fireplace and plantation shutters

Poolside views of the Sonoran Desert and Tucson below

Wine and dine your friends in the beautiful patio ramada with mountain views.

Private sitting porch off the master bedroom for quiet reading, wildlife viewing and city lights below.

Wildlife visitors include bobcat, Gambel quail, hummingbirds, deer, javelina and more!

Mountain Gardens Neighbors Hear about Dark Skies and Smart Lighting

2011-04-17T10:16:00.000-07:00

Neighbors from the Gates Pass area's Mountain Gardens neighborhood met Saturday morning at "the Y" at the neighborhood entrance for our Spring neighborhood watch meeting and to hear an interesting presentation on "dark skies." Liz Alvarez from the Kitt Peak Observatory talked about the importance of controlling our night-time light sources. This is important not only for the observatory but also so that we can see the stars more clearly from our own Tucson homes. Two of the most helpful things we can do are shielding our outdoor light fixtures so that light stays where we want it and doesn't stray wastefully toward the neighbors house or up into the dark sky. The second helpful thing is to control the timing of our lights. Do our outdoor lights really need to be on all night? Both timers and motion detectors can help with that (and save on your electric bill!)

Liz Alvarez of Kitt Peak Observatory talks "smart lighting" with the Mountain Gardens neighbors

For more information, check out the website of the International Dark Sky Association
which just happens to have it's home here in Tucson.

Thanks to Carol Crouse for organizing this meeting, Liz Alvarez of Kitt Peak Observatory and to all the neighbors who attended.

Mountain Gardens is one of the original neighborhoods of the Gates Pass area, with many classic Tucson Mountain homes dating back to the 1960's.

Gates Pass Neighbors Brave the Damp and Cold

2011-04-11T10:09:00.000-07:00

The Spring road cleanup by the Gates Pass Area Neighborhood Association (GPANA) went on as usual last Saturday, despite the cold and wet weather. A record 30 neighbors showed up to pick up trash along Camino de Oeste, followed by an even larger group gathering for a fun potluck brunch. There was great food and an opportunity for us all to catch up on the neighborhood news. We are all grateful to the Snyders for hosting the brunch in their beautiful home off of Trails End Road.

The Gates Pass Area Neighborhood Association (GPANA) is a wonderful volunteer organization of neighbors who monitor issues related to the area environment, Tucson Mt Park and proposed development in the Gates Pass/Trails End area. It is a great group of people and a wonderful benefit of owning a home in the Gates Pass area. For membership information, drop me an email and I will forward it to the GPANA.

Mountain Gardens Neighborhood Watch Coming Up In April

2011-04-01T15:16:00.000-07:00

And a special hello to my Mountain Gardens neighbors. Our semi annual Neighborhood Watch meeting is scheduled for Saturday April 16 at 10 am. We will meet at the "Y" at the entrance to the neighborhood. More details to come.

Mountain Gardens is one of the original neighborhoods of the Gates Pass Area, with some classic Tucson Mountain homes dating back to the 1960's. Tucson Mountain Park literally wraps around the neighborhood which makes for some great hiking and wildlife watching.

Santa Cruz Farmers Market: Thursday March 31

2011-03-30T08:46:00.000-07:00

I often see neighbors from Gates Pass at the Thursday Santa Cruz Farmers Market. It is definitely a benefit of having a home on our wonderful West Side.

The market begins at 3pm and this week will feature lots of greens...salad stuff, spinach, kale, chard and more. It is a good time to pick up your vegetable starter plants for your own garden or patio pots as well.
Sponsored by the Community Food Bank, their weekly newsletter gives you more details.
See you there!

Gates Pass Area Neighborhood Association Road Cleanup

2011-03-29T11:58:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder why Camino de Oeste is so clean between Ironwood Hill and Gates Pass Road? Well, credit goes to members of the Gates Pass Area Neighborhood Association (GPANA), who twice a year gather on a Saturday morning to pick up trash and litter. It is a great time to meet the neighbors and the cleanup is always followed by a fun potluck breakfast at someone's home.
The next road clean-up is scheduled for April 9. Drop me an email for more information on the clean-up and the Gates Pass Area Neighborhood Association. Come and meet your Gates Pass neighbors.

Just Sold in the Catalina Foothills: 4936 N Gardner River Way

2011-03-28T07:14:00.000-07:00

We found the Buyer the perfect house in the perfect location in the Catalina Foothills. This home features a gorgeous kitchen and resort style living with a cool pool and waterfall. A great home for entertaining.

Buffelgrass Removal at TUSD's Camp Cooper Scheduled for April 2

2011-03-25T11:58:00.000-07:00

Right here in the heart of our Gates Pass/Trails End area is the Cooper Center for Environmental Learning, the Tucson Unified School District's environment campus. Now operated as a partnership between TUSD and the University of Arizona, Camp Cooper has provided Tucson's school kids an opportunity to learn about the plants and wildlife of the Sonoran desert since the 1960's. On April 2, neighbors and supporters of Camp Cooper will join together to help remove invasive buffel grass and fountain grass from this beautiful natural desert campus.

Click on the link to learn more about the Cooper Center for Environmental Learning and about the buffel grass removal gathering on April 2.

Cooper Center for Environmental Learning

OPEN HOUSE Tomorrow (Saturday, March 26) at 4741 W Placita de Suerte

2011-03-25T10:41:00.000-07:00

This is a delightful burnt adobe home with pool and wonderful views. Set on over an acre in the Trails End Area of Gates Pass, this home features a sunny Arizona room and bonus office area.

I will be there from 1pm to 4pm Saturday, so stop by. If you have friends who want to buy a home in our great west side neighborhood, invite them out!

For more pics and details, go to 4741 W Placita de Suerte .

Pima County to Host Open House on Proposed Archery Hunting Closure Areas in Tucson Mountain Park

2011-03-20T09:53:00.000-07:00

Many of our newer Gates Pass neighbors are surprised to find that archery hunting is allowed in parts of the Tucson Mountain Park during certain times of the year. Regulated archery hunting is a tradition dating back decades in this county managed park. But as more homes have been built near the borders of Tucson Mountain Park, the county has reviewed the areas open for hunting and is proposing that more areas be closed to hunting.

Monsoon Sunset in Gates Pass

An Open House will be held at 6 pm on March 24 for additional public review and discussion of the proposed closure areas. The Open House will be held at the offices of the Pima County Natural Resources, Parks and Recreation offices at 3500 West River Road.

If you would like a copy of the meeting notice and the map of the proposed archery hunting closure zones in Tucson Mountain Park, drop me an email at jimwilson312@yahoo.com .

This Week's Santa Cruz Farmers Market, Thursday March 10, 2011

2011-03-09T14:17:00.000-07:00

The Santa Cruz Farmers Market will kick off as usual at 3:00pm this Thursday on Speedway between Silverbell Road and I-10. This week the market will feature fresh root and leaf vegetables, plants and free-range beef and chicken. A new offering, according to the market, is free-trade coffee from “La Finca de Mi Abuela.” This “Seed to Cup” coffee company provides whole bean coffee from the owner’s family farm in the San Martin region of Guatemala. Sponsored by the Community Food Bank, their weekly newsletter

gives you more details. See you there!

Just Listed in the Trails End area: 4741 W Placita de Suerte

2011-02-10T14:32:00.000-07:00

The is my newest home listing in the Trails End/Gates Pass area of Tucson's wonderful West side. Just a few minutes drive from downtown and UA, this great neighborhood is surrounded by the peaks and ridges of Tucson Mountain Park.

Classic Tucson Mountain burnt adobe home sits well back on this beautiful one acre lot

Relax and sip your morning coffee poolside, watching the quail stroll the wall as the mountain ridges turn red in the morning sun.

Saltillo tiled living room features beamed ceilings, beehive fireplace and Catalina Mountain views

Arizona Room with flagstone floors, gas fireplace and mountain views.

Desert and mountain views in all directions.

This wonderful Tucson home with all its Sonoran desert splendor is offered at $324,750

AT&T Cell Phone Tower: Informational Meeting on February 8 at 6pm

2011-02-05T15:15:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, AT&T has been casting about for a location for a new cell phone tower here in the Gates Pass area. They will be meeting with neighbors to discuss their latest plans on February 8 at the International Wildlife Museum on Gates Pass Road. The meeting is at 6:00pm and is open to all of us neighbors in the Gates Pass area.

Open House Tomorrow 1 to 4pm. 1766 N Placita Tuberia

2011-01-14T07:10:00.000-07:00

Gorgeous poolside patio and covered porch

Stop by tomorrow to see this great home off Trails End Road in the beautiful Gates Pass area. The setting is just spectacular, with the house settled on an acre of lush Sonoran desert. Poolside views of the desert and surrounding peaks will make you want to just settle in for the afternoon. So check the pics and stop by to see me tomorrow.

3 bedrooms and 2 baths on an acre of lush Sonoran desert

Beautiful Desert Setting in the Gates Pass Area: 1766 N Placita Tuberia

2011-01-09T07:53:00.000-07:00

I just love the poolside views from this new listing off Trails End Road in the Gates Pass area. Looking out over natural Sonoran desert and up to the ridges surrounding this great neighborhood, it is the perfect place for entertaining or relaxing in the evening and watching the moon come up over the ridges red with the setting sun. If you have friends who have envied your lifestyle here in the Tucson Mountains, let them know about this one.

One of the nicest pool settings I have seen, set over a desert wash with views up to the surrounding ridges.

Your pool is just of the covered patio and features a separate entrance to a poolside quarter bath.

Saltillo throughout reflects the light in this light and open house.

Poolside views looking towards the ridges of Tucson Mountains.

Breakfast area in kitchen looks out onto sunny courtyard.

Step out of your master bedroom onto your view deck.