Archives for August 2012

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team August in Arizona is the time when we all begin to wonder when the summer will end. Unfortunately, we have about two months left to endure. Monsoons clouds are beginning to build, the humidity is soaring and a few raindrops are falling. This month you will notice that your succulent plants are succumbing to high nighttime temperatures. When the night temperatures stay at 90º F or above and the humidity is high, most succulent plants can’t breathe. After several nights in a row, chances are many of them will rot. Other than careful watering, there is nothing that can be done. Birds are in abundance and many will re-nest if we have good monsoonal rains. All manner of wildlife are more active now, especially in the evening: snakes, owls, nightjars, ground squirrels, scorpions. Once in awhile an unusual bird species will be blown off course by monsoonal storm winds. Watch the rain activity around your landscape. Note the runoff direction, where the puddles form, and areas of erosion. Why? This will help you re-contour your yard for more efficient water harvesting. Keep note of the sun’s position in the sky. As the month progresses and the angle changes, you may begin to notice side-burning on plants, particularly cacti and succulents. Add small pieces of shade cloth until the days cool off. Look for flowers on your Texas Rangers (Leucophyllum spp.) after rainstorms. Also blooming are Tecoma spp., Guayacàn (Guaiacum coulteri), Desert-willow (Chilopsis linearis), Little-leaf Cordia (Cordia parvifolia), rain lilies (Zephyranthes spp.), Sacred Datura (Datura wrightii), and Baja Fairy Duster (Calliandra californica). The Desert Hackberry (Celtis pallida) will be full of fruit. Leave them for the birds and other wildlife. Same with the prickly-pear cacti – let the fruit ripen and be eaten. Watering Monsoons bring humidity and moisture to the low desert. More and more we see periods of high night temperatures of 90º F and above during this time. This makes it a risky month for watering cacti and some other succulents, particularly aloes. Be sure to adjust your irrigation timers if we receive a good soaking rain. Mediterranean plants and California chaparral plants, such as Cleveland Sage and White Sage (Salvia clevelandii and Salvia apiana) can be easy to overwater during this time. Pay special attention to your container plants, particularly if they are herbaceous in nature as they may need watering every day. What to Plant Although fall is the better time, with the higher humidity we can get away with planting trees and shrubs now but not perennials. Monsoon crops such as cowpeas, tepary beans, Hopi red-dye amaranth, Devil’s claw and small gourds can be started. If you have tomatoes, cut them back; if you don’t, plant now if they can be provided some shade. Cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower can all be started indoors from seed for fall planting. Pruning The extra humidity will elicit new growth on trees and shrubs. Minimal pruning should be performed during this month. Remove dead or broken branches and repair storm damaged areas but do not open up the canopy just yet. Fertilization Vegetables and herbs can be mulched this month. This is also a good time to fertilize your container plants. Problems This month you’ll see an abundance of insect activity. Mosquitoes are now commonplace throughout the Valley. Be sure to empty any containers, buckets, bowls, etc. that might catch rainwater as the larvae require water in which to mature. Cicadas are still buzzing away at this time and twig damage may be evident from their egg-laying. Ants and termites are swarming and if you see the mud tunnels of termites crawling up your plant stems, just wash them off. They are not harming the plants. Cochineal scale, that cottony substance all over your prickly-pears may also be active now. Wash them off with a hard spray of water or use insecticidal soap. Powdery mildew may also be showing up on your penstemons due to overwatering. Grasshoppers and aphids will show their presence too. The excrement from the aphids may cause sooty mold, especially on the Desert Milkweed (Asclepias subulata) and penstemons. They can be discouraged with a spray of water or insecticidal soap, but there really isn’t much you can do about them. Root borers are active and they’ll emerge around your trees’ drip lines but again, there isn’t much that can be done about them. Many butterfly and moth species are in abundance this month, particularly the Gulf Fritillary and the Hawkmoth. You’ll see the caterpillar larvae on certain plants but, unless the damage is significant, leave them to become the next generation of butterflies. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Are you thinking about garden design in Scottsdale for the first time? Finding some free, novice-friendly garden design tips isnt always easy. This article will provide you with the Top 4 garden design tips for beginners in Scottsdale. Whether you’re looking to go low maintenance or use native plants that do well in the desert, the following information will be beneficial to you. Top 4 Garden Design Tips for Beginners in Scottsdale: 1. Make sure your garden design has enough drainage. This is the most important garden design tip we’ll be addressing in this article. Gardens do not have an endless amount of soil that will absorb any amount of water you’re give your plants or flowers. Even the smallest amount of water over the limit that your plants can absorb will surely drown them, and this can be fatal to the plants you’re thinking about cultivating. Make sure your garden design incorporates the use of trenches or openings that will drain excess water in the soil away from the roots of your plants. 2. Consider the use of synthetic soil in your garden design. Many gardeners often complain about the odor emitted by the soil and how it can make the outdoor environment less enjoyable. The soil has to be kept healthy! This usually means that you must regularly apply fertilizer (compost or manure) and the smell can linger for days, if not weeks. Artificial soil provides all of the same benefits of healthy soil without the smell. Artificial soil is composed of peat moss, vermiculite and perlite, all of which provide essential nutrients for vegetation. 3. Water! We’ve already talked about the importance of proper drainage in your garden design. But how are you going to water your garden? Keep in mind that gardens are outdoors and in the desert sun. Your plants are going to require a lot of water. Garden plants in the desert are often deprived of water given the amount of evaporation they will experience and this deficiency translates into a greater demand for water. Make sure your garden design is located close to a good water source! 4. Choose the appropriate spot for each of your plants. Of all the garden design tips we have mentioned, this one should take a top priority. Your plants should have enough space, sun and water to grow. The size of your location is dependent on the plants you can choose. On average, most popular garden plants will require an 8- to 10-inch diameter. Here’s some information about a popular desert plant that will make a great addition to your garden design in Scottsdale. The Red Bird of Paradise, also called the Mexican Bird of Paradise or Caesalpinia Pulcherrima, is a hardy, low-maintenance perennial. They are relatively drought resistant, easy to find, cheap to buy and provide lovely color during different points of the year. The Red Bird of Paradise is an evergreen shrub that enjoys full sun and has bright yellow flowers with orange and red centers that grow out of long, thin stalks. They leaves are fern-like and grow very quickly. If you are still unsure about what will work in your garden design and landscaping in Scottsdale, there are plenty of online resources that can help you. For instance, many local landscaping companies have expertise in garden design and plants that thrive in the area. Hiring a professional garden design and landscaping company in Scottsdale, Arizona might just be your best bet. They can work with you to pick out the best plants that fit your taste, lifestyle and budget – and they can even help you maintain it!   Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team

Should You Buy a Home With a Swimming Pool?

Who Buys Homes With Swimming Pools? When it comes to buying a home with a pool, most home buyers fall into one of three camps:

• Home Buyers Who Won’t Look at Homes Without a Pool

For these buyers, a pool is paramount because a home is not a home without a pool. Pools are very popular in warm states, where they are used year round.

• Home Buyers Who Won’t Look at Homes With a Pool

Buyers with small children are often concerned about accidental deaths by drowning. Some buyers don’t want the upkeep or expense of a pool.

• Home Buyers Who Never Thought About a Pool

If the home has everything else a buyer desires but it also has a pool, these buyers may face a quick decision they hadn’t anticipated. Some buy the house and fill the pool with rocks. Should You Buy a Home With a Pool? According to the The Association of Pool and Spa Professionals, the number of new in-ground pools in the U.S. grew by 10% from 2002 to 2005, and some 4.7 million U.S. homes have in-ground pools. Studies show that most low-end and many middle-range buyers do not want a home with a pool. Higher-end homes are more likely to have pools, but some are never used. Some pools exist for decoration. If you enjoy swimming, then a pool might be right for you. But wisdom says buy a home with a pool only if you will use it. Otherwise, your sparkling pool could turn into an expensive pond for ducks. Types of Swimming Pools If you’re planning to install a swimming pool, hire a reputable pool contractor. In California, for example, contractors who do more than $500 of work on a pool must be licensed and are required to have a swimming pool specialty classification for the license. The cost for a new pool starts around $30,000, but can easily soar past six figures, depending on desired amenities such as fountains, landscaping or decking.

• Gunite Pools

Gunite pool construction, which is achieved by spraying a mixture of concrete and sand into a pool-sized hole, is the most popular. Unlike above-ground pools, which are temporary, these in-ground pools are permanent structures. Gunite pools can be laid out in almost any shape the home owner desires and last for years. But gunite is pricey.

• Vinyl Pools

Vinyl in-ground pools are generally rectangular, but other configurations are available. They are less expensive than gunite because the pools are lined with vinyl; however, the liners often need replacement after 10 years. They are popular in areas where temperatures dip below freezing and the pools are drained in the winter. To prepare for a vinyl pool, the ground is excavated and support walls are constructed from a variety of materials such as wood, steel, fiberglass or aluminum.

• Above-Ground Pools

Above-ground pools add no value to the home because they are portable. Above-ground is an inexpensive option for a pool. Some home owners buy do-it-yourself kits and assemble their own above-ground pools. Unlike in-ground pools, which can require weeks to complete, these pools can be installed in a few days. The Advantages of Owning a Home With a Pool

• Many people believe pools increase the aesthetic value of their yard.
• People who host a lot of parties utilize their pools as an entertainment center, and kids love pools.
• Pools provide an easy way to instantly cool down on hot days.
• Some people use swimming pools exclusively for in-water exercises and say pools add health benefits for them.
• Swimming pools can bring added value at resale, especially in hot climates.

The Disadvantages of Owning a Home With a Pool

• Regular maintenance. Pools require chemicals, cleaning and over time, repair.
• Children can drown. Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death among children ages 1 to 4, says Safekids.
• Pool homes appeal to fewer buyers.
• Pools consume valuable yard space, and in a small yard, they can overwhelm.
• It might cost more to insure a home with a pool, and heating it can drive up utility bills.

Do Pools Add or Detract From the Value of a Home? Whether a pool adds value to a home depends on where you live. The three most popular states for pool homes are California, Arizona and Florida. The National Association of Realtors says an in-ground pool adds about 7.7% more in value to the home’s market value. However, in colder climates, such as Minnesota, a pool may add no value at all. Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

  By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Buying a spa is a decision you shouldn’t feel rushed or pressured into, so be sure to ask the dealer a lot of questions. Like shopping for anything else, knowledge is everything. Before you take the plunge into buying a spa, ask for a private “test soak” so you can feel the jets and the overall comfort of the spa. Here is a checklist of things to consider. Feel free to print it out and take it with you when you comparison shop. 1. Learn about the spa’s specific features, ease of use and maintenance.

• When the spa is not in use, does the water always remain hot and clean?
• Do the jets and jet systems allow you to customize your hydromassage experience?
• How loud are the jets and pump?
• Does the spa offer a balanced filtration system? Is the water continuously filtered 24 hours a day to ensure clean, clear water?
• Are the filters top-loaded for easy access
• Is the heating and filtration system fully automatic with no programming required?
• Is there an automatic clean-up cycle after you exit the spa?
• Inquire about the heater—typically the most vulnerable component of any spa. Make sure corrosion will not occur.
• Are the controls user-friendly, easy to operate and adjust?
• Are there optional features to make spa ownership easier?
• What are the electrical specifications of the spa? Are both 115v and 230v available? (115v can be far less expensive to install)
• How is the seating configured? Are you able to move about easily? Is there lumbar support for your back?

2. Learn how the spa was constructed and its energy efficiency.

• The components should be fully tested and backed by the manufacturer’s warranty.
• Make sure the spa is totally insulated, not just fully-foamed.
• Ask how to estimate your monthly operation costs. (Beware of less expensive spas which can cost in excess of $50 per month to operate).

3. Obtain a copy of the warranty.

• Ask for a copy of the warranty and read it thoroughly. Beware of the dealer who is reluctant to provide a copy.
• What spa parts are covered under warranty and for how long? Make sure the heater, surface/structure, components, tile and skirt are included.
• How does the manufacturer’s warranty compare with other brands? Make sure there are no undesirable limitations or exclusions.

4. Obtain information on the manufacturer and the dealer to ensure you will      receive quality service both during and after your spa purchase.

• How long has the manufacturer been in business?
• How long has the dealer been in business? Inquire about their service policy.
• Call the Better Business Bureau for more information.
• Ask for customer references.

Please note that this Scottsdale Real Estate Blog is for informational purposes and not intended to take the place of a licensed Scottsdale Real Estate Agent. The Szabo Group offers first class real estate services to clients in the Scottsdale Greater Phoenix Metropolitan Area in the buying and selling of Luxury homes in Arizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes in Scottsdale, The Szabo group delivers experience, knowledge, dedication and proven results. Contact Joe Szabo at 480.688.2020, info@ScottsdaleRealEstateTeam.com or visit www.scottsdalerealestateteam.com to find out more about Scottsdale Homes for Sale and Estates for Sale in Scottsdale and to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.