Sonoran House Scottsdale Real Estate

Tick-Tock

Susan Gruenling — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 13:01:40 +0000

Most of the country “fell back” last night. Daylight Savings Time ended and the clocks were turned back one hour. Arizona does not participate in this, though the Navajo Nation in Arizona does, we always remain on Mountain Standard Time. Just a little reminder in case you need to make an early call to a [...]

You Go Girl

Susan Gruenling — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 13:30:40 +0000

I recently received an email from a client of mine who was so excited about the new pool and backyard landscaping that was just completed on her home. She is a single female who bought her own home last summer. That really got me thinking about how many single women I know who own their [...]

Paradise Valley vs The Ritz Carlton: Know the Facts for Prop 411

Susan Gruenling — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 16:28:01 +0000

I was recently able to attend a town meeting of sorts. Five Star Development held an open house to discuss their project with the Ritz Carlton. There has been quite a bit of controversy over the use of the 105 acres on the corner of Indian Bend and Scottsdale Road. Five Star wants to be [...]

Yes on 100-Protect Our Homes

Susan Gruenling — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 14:05:15 +0000

One of the many propositions on this years Arizona ballot is Proposition 100. I was talking to someone recently about this and they said “Oh yes, I am aware of this and I do not want this tax so I will be voting no.” I quickly informed them that a NO vote could lead to [...]

Marketing Mystery

Susan Gruenling — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 14:01:42 +0000

There are many tools available that we Realtors use to promote listings; flyers, postcards, photos galleries, slide shows, virtual tours. These are all great ways to get the home out there and in front of prospective Buyers. But occasionally, marketing a home this way can eliminate many Buyers as well. We need to take a [...]

Mummified

Susan Gruenling — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 13:57:02 +0000

While out showing property the other day my client turned to me and asked if I knew how Mummy Mountain got it’s name. He asked it in such a way that I knew it wasn’t a question that I needed to answer; but that he knew and wondered if I did too. I was anticipating [...]

In a Land Far, Far Away

Susan Gruenling — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 13:40:09 +0000

I recently spoke with a colleague of mine that was working with Buyers on a contract. The Sellers happened to live out of state. They wrote up an offer and presented it to the Agent. My colleague was told by the Sellers’ Agent that the Sellers do not have a fax and they are having [...]

I’ve Got Connections

Susan Gruenling — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 13:46:28 +0000

Michael Pennisi, a Realtor in New Jersey, wrote a post about Home Buying Myths. Myth #2 was “I can find more homes for sale by calling lots of agents.” Do I agree? No, but if you read the link you see I don’t agree with the statement, but I do agree with Michael. Here in the [...]

Better Than Beige…Hazy Lilac

Susan Gruenling — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 13:13:51 +0000

Purple has always been the color of royalty. Watch this color change shades as the sunlight changes throughout the day. It is rich and hazy but looked surprisingly greenish in the can. It looses a lot of it’s femininity when paired with rich dark wood. House Beautiful recently declared violet as the new beige. Shades of violet and [...]

A Chandelier on Your Wall

Susan Gruenling — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 14:01:50 +0000

How fabulous would this painting look in a young girls room! The image is so feminine and girly with a crystal and gold chandelier yet the colors are not too sweet and would add sophistication. This painting could definitely become a treasured piece of art that a girl could grow with. I could see this starting [...]

Decisions, Decisions

Susan Gruenling — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 13:58:07 +0000

If you are searching for a home you know that you have a lot of potential properties to choose from. It can seem overwhelming. How does one decide? Here a few helpful tips: List your priorities. Sit down with all who will live in the house and decide what is [...]

Location, Location, Location

Susan Gruenling — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 13:50:08 +0000

Ask anyone what the top three most important things in real estate are and they will surely say “location, location, location.” Okay, so what if you have a house and it is not in the best location in the neighborhood? What if it is the worst location in the neighborhood? We have seen this many [...]

The Big Question

Susan Gruenling — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 13:39:51 +0000

The Arizona Association of Realtors is the 7th largest in the country and continuing to grow. With over 50,000 agents to choose from how do you find the right agent for you? Ask. Ask friends for referrals. Ask questions. And look for an agent that asks questions of you. You may be working with this person for an [...]

Better Than Beige…Cocoa

Susan Gruenling — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 13:43:13 +0000

This is a delicious mocha color. Warm and masculine yet soft and not at all harsh. It’s like being immersed in creamy hot cocoa. It adds depth and richness to the walls and surprisingly does not make the room feel small or dark. According to many designers dark colors make the walls recede. And if you are still concerned that the [...]

The End of Paper

Susan Gruenling — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 14:33:48 +0000

We are quickly becoming a paperless society. Though I can’t imagine a world without paperback books, paper is becoming more obsolete. Years ago when I was trying to purchase my first home I remember looking through these large MLS books with all of the active listings. These books were several inches [...]

Delightful Dove Valley Ranch

Susan Gruenling — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 14:50:06 +0000

If you are looking for a home in Cave Creek consider this wonderful property. Prime location in beautiful Dove Valley Ranch. Click on the FeaturedTour to view the slide show and see how much this home has to offer. This could be the perfect place for you to call home! Contact us for even more [...]

“Smaller” is the New Larger

Susan Gruenling — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 13:44:31 +0000

Is bigger really better? In a recent article in the Daily Real Estate News they discussed an article from Money Magazine about future housing trends. ” In a February survey of potential home buyers by the National Association of Home Builders, 60 percent said they would rather have a smaller house with more amenities than vice verse. [...]

Don’t Keep up with the Joneses

Susan Gruenling — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 13:03:08 +0000

So, you want to sell your home? Be careful how you determine the asking price. Don’t be fooled into thinking that your neighbor has their property properly priced. Someone just told me that they want to put their home on the market and because their neighbor is listed at $419K they think their [...]

Firsts for First Time Home Buyers

Susan Gruenling — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 13:45:34 +0000

If you are purchasing your first home it need not be a scary process. Planning and working with people you trust make all the difference. There are things you should do first before you consider writing an offer. Get pre-approved for a mortgage with a Lender. Discuss your options. What is your [...]

Better Than Beige…Steel Grey

Susan Gruenling — Fri, 29 Aug 2008 19:58:31 +0000

The painting is gorgeous, but notice how nicely it is framed out by the color on the wall. Don’t get me wrong, I love white walls, especially in a really modern setting, but many times color makes a world of difference. It can highlight the colors in artwork or fabric on furniture. This [...]

Dive In!

Susan Gruenling — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 13:00:44 +0000

This amazing pool looks like it belongs in a Vegas resort but it is actually in my friend’s backyard. They recently had it built and have been enjoying it everyday this summer. It is the largest pool I have seen in the Valley at a private residence. With over 50,000 gallons, 2 spas, [...]

A Picture is Worth 1 Million Dollars

Susan Gruenling — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 13:30:12 +0000

It always amazes me when I see homes listed in the MLS without photos. Apparently others are as well. I am currently working with Buyers looking for a home in Scottsdale in the $1 million dollars price range. We will be viewing property together online and the next listing that shows up on [...]

The Keys to Your Future

Susan Gruenling — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 14:16:49 +0000

Finally the day has arrived! All of the documents have been signed, the monies have been received and your new house has just recorded. Your Realtor is headed over with the house keys. And then of course the moving and unpacking can begin. When you buy a home it is so exciting to [...]

Gifted

Susan Gruenling — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:10:15 +0000

I received a gift last month. Now, I am not a gift person so to speak. But the more I learned about this gift the more excited I became. My gift was an iphone. I realize that there was a lot of hubbub over the iphone; people standing in line for hours, people I know [...]

2008 Beijing Olympic Medal Standings

Jonathan Griffith — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 21:48:44 +0000

Olympic Medal winners at NBC Olympics.com! Related posts No related posts.

San Jose Remodel-The Exterior

Susan Gruenling — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 14:34:35 +0000

The Exterior Well I really wish I had more “after” photos of the yard. We really cleaned up the overgrown jungle. We kept the old rose bushes and planted gorgeous iris bulbs on the side. The back flower beds by the patio were replanted with jasmine, a little lemon tree, colorful flowers and herbs. My least favorite [...]

Is Now a Good Time to Buy?

Susan Gruenling — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 16:10:35 +0000

That is the question on every one’s mind. The answer? It depends… are you looking to make money in real estate? If you buy when prices are low and sell when the price increases you will make a profit. Not really rocket science. So if the prices are low now and you purchase a home that you [...]

San Jose Remodel Series-The Dining Room and Half Bath

Susan Gruenling — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 14:11:22 +0000

The Dining Room and Half/Full Bath Sometime during the home’s lifespan an addition was put on the house (professionally) and they added 2 rooms, a half bath, a separate entrance to the front of the home, and a door to the garage. Sounds confusing but it was really a good idea. The space could be really flexible depending on [...]

Open Sesame

Susan Gruenling — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 15:09:20 +0000

What does it mean to “open escrow”? The contract has been written and the Seller’s have accepted the offer. Line 9 of the contract includes an amount of earnest deposit and line 91 of the contract names the Escrow/Title Company. The Buyer’s agent will deliver the earnest check and signed contract to the Title Company and escrow is [...]

Attracted To The Art

Susan Gruenling — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 14:53:30 +0000

To turn your house into a home you need to incorporate your style and personality into the space. Artwork is very personal. People are attracted to a particular piece for so many reasons. Perhaps the content of a painting really speaks to you. Or it could be the color or the combination of colors. Sometimes an [...]

San Jose Remodel Series-The Living Room

Susan Gruenling — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 13:45:19 +0000

The Living Room The room was really great from the start with big windows and a wood burning fireplace. Besides the bedrooms, this room needed the least amount of work (not including the chimney and fireplace which was professionally rebuilt). But you will see what a big difference a few small changes make. The mantel was in need of [...]

Better Than Beige…Timberland

Susan Gruenling — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 13:37:45 +0000

This is one dreamy bedroom! You are sure to get a good night sleep when enveloped in a soothing color. This particular shade could be described as medium taupe or maybe mushroom. If you are looking for a neutral color this is a wonderful option. Notice: neutral does NOT = beige. A hint of grey [...]

Unwanted Neighbor

Susan Gruenling — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 13:33:04 +0000

The other night while walking the dogs one of them was pulling me towards a neighbors front grass and bushes with her nose to the ground. It was after sunset and fairly dark. I looked over and notice her target. At first glance I thought it was a rock but then realized it was a toad. I quickly [...]

The Virtual Office

Susan Gruenling — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 14:07:03 +0000

The advances in technology allow me to set up office virtually anywhere. I do not need to be near a fax and neither does everyone else. This unchains me from the desk. I can conduct business from my home in Scottsdale, while visiting family on the East Coast, friends on the West Coast or while sipping [...]

85258 Beauty

Susan Gruenling — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 14:04:50 +0000

This property is a unique treasure in the heart of Scottsdale. It is difficult to find a 2 bedroom home with this much square footage. The ample living spaces allow plenty of room for entertaining. The backyard has the feel of an English garden with a taste of Arizona. Situated in the guard gated community of Las Palomas [...]

Top 100

Susan Gruenling — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 14:08:59 +0000

The August 2008 edition of CNN Money reveals the top 100 places to live. Plentiful jobs, excellent schools, affordable housing - America’s best small cities have all that and more. -CNNMoney.com I am happy to say that my original hometown, my current hometown plus one other city that I have lived in made the list. I have actually [...]

Ask and Ye Shall Receive…

Susan Gruenling — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 17:06:01 +0000

“I am looking for a really charming adobe cottage” she said. “That would be my dream home. I don’t need to move now, so just let me know if you ever come across something like that.” Well, a few days later I did. We went to see the property; a unique, charming adobe home built in [...]

San Jose Remodel Series-The Full Bath

Susan Gruenling — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 14:01:20 +0000

The Full Bath Yellow and turquoise tile may have been all the rage way back when, but this bath was in severe need of an overhaul. As you will see in the slideshow (that’s me with the hammer) everything came out except the tub which was in great shape beleive it or not. We took it down [...]

“You Can Still Do Well In Real Estate”

Susan Gruenling — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 16:10:27 +0000

Donald Trump just sold his Palm Beach oceanfront estate for a record breaking $100 million. According to the Palm Beach Post it was more like $95 million that was paid for the 62,000 square foot home plus 2 guest houses and 48 car garage on 6 acres. Trump purchased the residence in 2004 for $41 million and fixed it up. At time [...]

Better Than Beige…Red

Susan Gruenling — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 14:15:44 +0000

Paint isn’t just for walls. Other surfaces can also benefit from a color face lift. These cabinets were solid wood but a little dull. The owner decided to spice them up with this feisty color. Notice how the high gloss really makes them pop. Red is actually versatile enough to transform into a more traditional look, country [...]

Put Some Art On

Susan Gruenling — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 15:53:34 +0000

So maybe you have noticed that I am not a fan of beige walls. Well I am also not a fan of bare walls. Just say NO to naked walls. Artwork is a great way to express your personal style. A house quickly transforms into a home when you decorate your walls. I [...]

Lake Front in Gainey Ranch

Susan Gruenling — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 13:57:52 +0000

If you are a busy professional, a part time resident or someone looking for sophistication this may be the property for you. This open and spacious home has been upgraded with style. Notice the attention to detail in the limestone flooring with marble inlays and custom maple cabinetry, highlights also include stainless Sub-Zero fridge and [...]

One Realtor, Many Opinions

Susan Gruenling — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 14:08:08 +0000

Not everybody likes to give free advice; but if your home is for sale you should be receiving feedback. Be sure that your Realtor requests feedback information from the other Realtors each time your home is previewed or shown. It’s really a pretty simple concept and easy to implement yet it is surprising how few agents do [...]

San Jose Remodel Series-The Breakfast Room

Susan Gruenling — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 13:44:41 +0000

The Breakfast Room The old kitchen was split into two areas; work space and dining space. It was clearly evident when we pulled up the linoleum flooring which turned out to be a difficult and disappointing task. Underneath the flooring in the breakfast area we found evidence of hardwood floors (Hallelujah). But they did not continue into [...]

To Do or Not To Do

Susan Gruenling — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 18:11:13 +0000

“What should I do to get my home ready for sale?” my friend asked. “Should I pull out the carpet and put down hardwood? What about the patio and repainting the kitchen?” My advice… I think she is off to a great start by simply realizing that a property must look it’s best in this market. The fact [...]

Better Than Beige…Dark Linen

Susan Gruenling — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 16:18:08 +0000

When you think dark linen, this is not the color you would imagine. This is the color you would imagine if someone said “pale lime” or “mojito“. It is cool and refreshing and very pale green; perfect in our warm climate. Just enough color to make a difference yet light enough for those who fear color. This is [...]

Charm & Character in McCormick Ranch

Susan Gruenling — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 15:23:20 +0000

Picture yourself on an outdoor patio of a Caribbean plantation on a balmy night with a cool drink and a tranquil breeze. Picture yourself at a casual dinner party in a California villa, the French doors wide open, friends gathered in the library with wine and great conversation. The enchanting courtyards and back patio flickering with candlelgiht. Perhaps [...]

San Jose Remodel Series-The Kitchen

Susan Gruenling — Fri, 04 Jul 2008 13:32:22 +0000

Many areas of real estate interest me including the renovation of an older home. A friend of mine asked about the house I renovated in San Jose, CA several years ago; so here it is. I didn’t work on the project alone, though I did handle a lot of work. I ventured into everything from demolishing counter tops & tiled [...]

North Scottsdale Opportunity

Susan Gruenling — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 15:12:57 +0000

Looking for a home with a large yard in Scottsdale? This just might be your place. The Tuscan-inspired home is nearly 5,000 square feet & situated on 1.6 acres. The backyard currently consists of a large pool & spa. Let your landscapingimagination run wild! How do you spend your time outdoors? [...]

Pick a Number, Any Number

Susan Gruenling — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 16:56:48 +0000

That is not the best way to determine the asking price for your newly listed property. Where do you need to look to find a starting point? Unfortunately, many Sellers look at what the neighbors are asking for their house. Jon Griffith of Realty Executives wrote a great article on this subject. Read it here Related posts Big Incentive [...]