szabogroup, Author at Scottsdale Real Estate Team / Arizona Luxury Homes

Dolly Steamboat Cruise By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Arizona

September 24, 2012 szabogroup

Waterfront Property Scottsdale, Arizona

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Enjoy the Cruise in one of these five ways: 1. 1 ½ Hour Narrated Nature Cruise During this 6 mile cruise you may see desert bighorn sheep, bald eagles and a host of other animals viewed from the decks of the Dolly! We also touch on the beautiful flora from the stately Saguaro cacti to the microscopic organism called desert varnish. An unforgettable vista of volcanic “welded Tuff” canyons and 1300 foot cliffs awaits you on CanyonLake. This awe-inspiring “Diamond in the Rough” is one of Arizonas’ best-kept secrets! This cruise is recommended for guests of all ages. 2. 2-1/2 Hour Twilight Dinner Cruise Our dinner cruises offer all of the grandeur of the daily cruise plus the ambiance of the twilight. Observe CanyonLake wildlife as they settle in for the evening. Our dinner cruise route extends another three to four miles upriver from our typical nature cruise, allowing guests different views and cliffs in excess of 1200’! While the sunset, moon and the stars take you to a special place both mentally and spiritually! Whether a romantic evening of two, or a unique and exceptional setting for any occasion. 3. 2-1/2 Hour Twilight Astronomy Dinner Cruise Our astronomy dinner cruises offer all of the magnificence of the dinner cruise plus the knowledge and insight provided by our Astronomy expert, Dr. Sky, Steve Kates. Dr. Sky breaks down the solar system as you view the night sky aboard the Dolly. His mission is to encourage people to look up to the heavens with awe and curiosity. Dr. Sky will be available for questions throughout the evening as he interprets the constellations in a way that all can understand. 4. Special Cruises Caroling Cruise Join the Dolly Crew, Santa and a host of helpers for a 90 minute cruise as we cruise through the canyon. Sing Christmas carols, visit with Santa and more. Hot chocolate, apple cider and cookies are included. Children 4 and under are complimentary (as long as they don’t participate in the meal) Please indicate any non-paying children when booking your reservation. Parade of Lights Dinner Cruise The Dolly Steamboat leads the parade of boats in the annual cruise. Complete dinner also includes: Grilled chicken breast, side salad, baked potato, vegetable du jour, dinner rolls and apple pie for dessert. Drinks included are iced tea, lemonade and coffee. 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.

The Desert Belle Cruise By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Arizona

September 17, 2012 szabogroup

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team The new Desert Belle is a 143 passenger, two level boat. It has a partial lower level air-conditioned section and includes two bathrooms and a snack bar. Originally launched in 1964, the Desert Belle has been plowing the waters of SaguaroLake for over forty years. Relax in air-conditioned comfort on one of her 90 minute narrated public cruises and see exotic Arizona wildlife, towering canyon walls, and dramatic desert vistas. The perfect spot to bring out-of-town guests. Private cruises are also available for an unforgettable wedding, birthday, anniversary, or office party. Whatever you choose, The Desert Belle is a unique way to enjoy all the beauty that Arizona has to offer. Arizona’s Best Kept Secret! This relaxing, narrated cruise is entertaining as well educational for nature lovers of all ages! SaguaroLake is located within the TontoNational Forest, just 20 minutes from Mesa, Arizona. Experience the magnificence of both desert beauty and natural wildlife of one of the Valley’s hidden treasures, spectacular SaguaroLake. Witness the flora and fauna first-hand, as you navigate pristine Sonoran desert canyons. Watch birds of prey soaring high on desert thermals as you photograph breath-taking desert vistas. Along the way, we’ll see:

Geological Formations – The beauty created by wind and water over millions of years on the desert landscape
Flora – Prickly pear, barrel, jumping cholla and majestic Saguaro cacti, mesquite, ironwood and Arizona’s state tree, the Palo Verde
Desert fauna – Both predators and prey, including ring-tailed cats, bobcats, mountain lions, coyotes, javalina, bighorn sheep and deer
Avian Species – Vultures, falcons, eagles, hawks and many others to catch your eye

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.

Amazing Scottsdale Arizona By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Arizona

September 10, 2012 szabogroup

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Indulge yourself in Scottsdale Arizona. A one-of-a-kind vacation pleasure. It’s a place to refresh, fill the senses and to test your adventurous side. Just imagine any desire and when the sun rises, it all comes to life. ScottsdaleAz is simply gorgeous, worldclass and passionate. Its purpose is to entertain you. Southwestern style. When it comes to golf, the Scottsdale area has no rival. Names like Troon, the Boulders, Grayhawk and Legend Trail come quickly to mind. Many of the highest ranked golf courses in the world are right here in Greater Scottsdale. Perhaps it’s the beauty of the lush green against SonoranDesert charm. Maybe it’s the 300 days annually of sky blue sunshine. Whatever the attraction, Scottsdale is a golf paradise that beckons visitors from around the world. Adventurous recreation in and around Scottsdale Az. Hot air balloon in quiet solitude where panoramic views are even more spectacular than below. Float the shimmering Salt River and its soft rapids. Bike the SonoranDesert trails, water ski SaguaroLake and glide the skies. Jeep tour into nature and ancient Indian history. The tour up Apache Trail is amazing and once was described by President Theodore Roosevelt as the best scenic view of nature in America. And if you enjoy gaming excitement, several local casinos offer Las Vegas style gambling and entertainment. In Scottsdale there’s always a new way to enjoy Arizona pleasure. When the shopping urge strikes, head to Scottsdale. Shopping is worldclass and abundant. Discover more than 125 famous art galleries where you’ll be amazed with the finest paintings, sculptures and unique creations. The boutiques along 5th Avenue in downtown Scottsdale will entertain your urge for hours. Big and little store shopping can be enjoyed at Scottsdale Fashion Square with its endless shops and delightful restaurants. For the unique experience try the Bogotá of Scottsdale designed with Old Italian flavor. Or the Pedregal Festival Market Place fashioned after Old Morocco. At sunrise, relaxing recreation in Scottsdale begins. Hike the tranquility and experience mountain and desert views. The stately Saguaro, gigantic boulders of natural granite and springtime cactus blooms. Ride the trails, see the sights, experience the culture, golf in the fresh air or simply lounge by the pool and soak-in the sunshine and the quiet pleasure Scottsdale has to offer. At night Scottsdale really shines. Award-winning famous restaurants will tantalize your palette. A hayride to a cowboy cookout where you can gaze at the stars. Perhaps the theatre or a concert. A stroll in downtown Scottsdale. Nightlife and clubbing abounds with dancing and romantic adventure. And there’s NFL, Major League Baseball and the annual New Year’s Fiesta Bowl for the sports enthusiast. 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.

Visit these Lakes Near Scottsdale By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Arizona

September 3, 2012 szabogroup

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Scottsdale Area Lakes. Sitting at the northern reaches of the scenic SonoranDesert in the Salt RiverValley, the Phoenix area is known for its arid climate as well as for its gorgeous desert landscapes accented by several small mountain ranges surrounding the city. Both locals and visitors alike often head to the area’s lakes to cool off and enjoy a variety of water recreation activities. The lakes are truly hidden gems, offering a spectacular oasis of sparkling blue waters in this desert landscape. Canyon Lake. Canyon Lake is the smallest of four lakes that were created by damming the Salt River. What the lake lacks in size, it makes up for in natural beauty. CanyonLake is surrounded by red rock formations and canyon walls, providing visitors with a spectacular backdrop to savor while they enjoy a range of recreational activities on the lake. CanyonLake is conveniently located just sixteen miles from Apache Junction, along a scenic route marked by ancient cliff dwellings and the SuperstitionMountains From the Phoenix area, you can reach CanyonLake in less than an hour. Across the lake’s 28 miles of shoreline, it is common to see people swimming, camping, picnicking, and simply lounging by the water’s edge and enjoying the view. The lake is also popular for boating, jet skiing, water skiing, and windsurfing, with easy water access at the full service CampMarina. The lake is home to a variety of fish including walleye, large mouth bass, yellow bass, rainbow trout, and more, making it ideal for a fishing trip. While you are visiting CanyonLake, keep your eyes open for abundant wildlife, such as big horn sheep, javelina, and deer. Saguaro Lake. SaguaroLake was also formed as a result of damming the Salt River. This picturesque lake enjoys a convenient location just 47 miles from downtown Phoenix and is set amidst the beautiful TontoNational Forest. There is a nominal entrance fee to SaguaroLake, but the fee is well worth the experience of spending some time on the lake. The beautiful blue waters of the lake sparkle against the pink and yellow outcroppings of rocks and cliffs on the shoreline, creating an enchanting setting for a day on the lake. The lake is one of the deepest in the area, reaching 118 feet in some areas. With its depth, SaguaroLake is often one of the coolest and most refreshing in the area to enjoy water recreation. The Butcher Jones’ picnic and swimming area and the Saguaro Del Norte Recreation Area are hugely popular places for locals and visitors to cool off on hot summer days. With over 1,200 water-covered acres, SaguaroLake is also popular for boats as well as jet skiers. The lake is a fisherman’s haven, filled with brown and rainbow trout, yellow and large mouth bass, walleye, crappie, and more. Visitors to the lake are often rewarded with glimpses of wildlife like big horn sheep, eagles, mule deer, and more. After a great day on the lake, the Saguaro Lake Restaurant overlooking the SaguaroLakeMarina offers exceptional sunset views of the lake as well as delicious meals. Lake Pleasant. Lake Pleasant is the largest lake in the Phoenix area, featuring over 10,000 water-covered acres and an impressive 50 miles of shoreline. This lake is just thirty miles north of Phoenix, making it convenient for locals and visitors to access. With much of the lake waters supplied by the Aqua Fria River which is fed by rain and melted snow from northern Arizona, the waters are typically cool and refreshing even in the warmest of summer months. With so much room on the water at LakePleasant, this lake is the preferred destination for those with boating in mind. It is not uncommon to see the lake filled with water skiers, jet skiers, canoes, kayaks, and other watercraft on warm days. The lake is also a top fishing spot in the area, with some of the biggest fish in the area angled here. Some of the fish you can find here include striped bass, white and black crappie, channel catfish, and more. Other popular activities at LakePleasant including tent and RV camping, picnicking, and hiking. Tempe Town Lake. Tempe Town Lake is a small 2-mile long lake. Located in the heart of the Valley of the Sun, TempeTownLake is convenient to residents and visitors to the Phoenix area. The lake was formed by damming part of the normally dry Salt River between Phoenix and Tempe, AZ. This incredibly popular urban lake sets along the edges of Downtown Tempe and ArizonaSateUniversity. Surrounding the lake, you will find grassy knolls that are popular for lounging around and enjoying lake views as well as picnicking. There are also paved sidewalks around this two mile lake, making it a great spot for skating, walking and jogging. While small, you can enjoy a variety of boating activities on TempeTownLake, such as rowing, sailing, and paddling. Watercraft rentals are available through Rio Lago Cruise Company. TempeTownLake is stocked with rainbow trout annually and has a natural population of largemouth bass. The several small amphitheaters and the Tempe Center for the Arts on the lake. Several events are held at the lake during the year including outdoor concerts, the4^th of July Celebration and the Fantasy of Lights Boat Parade held during the holiday season. 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.

August Gardening Tips By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Arizona

August 27, 2012 szabogroup

Joe Szabo Scottsdale Homes for Sale

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.

Garden Design Tips for Beginners in Scottsdale, Arizona By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Arizona

August 20, 2012 szabogroup

Joe Szabo Scottsdale Homes for Sale

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.

Buying Homes With Swimming Pools By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Arizona

August 13, 2012 szabogroup

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.

How to Buy a Spa By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Arizona

August 6, 2012 szabogroup

Joe Szabo Scottsdale Homes for Sale

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.

Swimming Pool Kits for your Luxury Pool By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Arizona

July 30, 2012 szabogroup

Joe Szabo Scottsdale Real Estate for Sale

By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Most house owners have their dream pool in their house premises. There are different types of small and large swimming pools that require regular maintenance and too much of investments to keep them in perfect condition. This is one of the reasons why swimming pool kits are always considered as a better alternative for such pools. These types are generally ready made kits that can be used to prepare your dream pool, just within a couple of hours. Due to the convenience there are a number of people who can in fact enjoy the fun of the perfect leisure time along with their relatives and friends such that they can add fun to their weekends. There are different types of swimming pools kits like inground pool kits and above ground pool kits available both online and offline. When searching the internet you certainly can come across a number of online stores that offer such kits for a very reasonable price. When shopping online you always have an option to shop for different types of pool kits along with a number of other accessories like pool liners and pool chemicals. One of the main advantages shopping online is that you get these kits delivered right at your door step within few days. When purchasing inground pool kits or above ground pool kits, there are chances that you might also get a DVD/CD guide and a user manual that provides you with a complete details on the process of installation of the kits such that you can easily assemble the tank all by your self just within few moments. So, you just have to gift yourself with a perfect swimming pool kit this summer so you can enjoy a refreshing moment with your family and friends. Different types of kits are designed to be installed in your home depending on the amount of space available for the installation. In case you are having slope yard in your house then above ground pool kits are always considered as a better option available. One of the main advantages of getting a personal pool in your house is that you can always enjoy the fun of health spa at your own convenience. You just have to make a one time investment and you can save lots of money that you would otherwise be spending for visiting a health center or your club house. These are better options to refresh and rejuvenate all your sense right at your home along with your family or friends. In case you have one pool kit installed at your home then you just have to try and maintain it in perfect condition. You can try decorating it with different types of accessories that are easily available both online and offline. These additional accessories are made to enhance the looks of your pool along with offering the right type of protection to your swimming pool kits. Installing a fiberglass pool kits is a good option as these are easy to install and prefabricated. Other better types are also shock resistant and scratch proof so you can ensure that it might not get damaged easily. 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.

The 5 Best Golf Resorts in Scottsdale and Phoenix By Joe Szabo, Scottsdale Real Estate Team Arizona

July 23, 2012 szabogroup

By Joe Szabo,ScottsdaleReal Estate Team

1. Wigwam Golf Resort and Spa.Litchfield Park,Arizona The legendary Wigwam Golf Resort & Spa has been a renowned retreat in the Valley of the Sun since 1929. Located just 20 minutes west of downtownPhoenix, the resort boasts 331 casita-style rooms, three championship golf courses, several distinct restaurants featuring fine regional cuisine, nine lighted tennis courts, two sparkling pools, lush gardens and a multitude of recreational activities. Wigwam’s three 18-hole championship golf courses offer a diversity that cannot be matched by any otherArizonaresort. Enhancements to the Robert Trent Jones, Sr.-designed courses include an ‘island green,’ expanded practice facilities and the acclaimedJimMcLeanGolfSchool. The Wigwam has also recently completed a host of major improvements to the resort, including a new (Elizabeth Arden) Red Door Spa, a magnificent, inviting and uncluttered getaway where guests can lounge in plush surroundings made specifically for quiet, meditative relaxation. The two-story spa facility will encompass 26,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor areas that mirrors The Wigwam’s historic, signature adobe-style architecture. 2. Westin Kierland Resort and Spa – Right Next Door to the Kierland Golf Club Westin Kierland Resort and Spa is set in a great location for golfers, right next door to Kierland Golf Club with more great courses just around the corner. The hotel is also adjacent to Kierland Commons, one of those fancy developments featuring upscale specialty retail, entertainment and dining venues; a great night spot after a long day on the courses. Westin Kierland Resort and Spa also has several restaurants and lounges on the property including the Brittlebush Bar & Grill. Accommodations: Westin Kierland Resort and Spa has 732 guest rooms, including 55 suites and 32 casita units. All guest rooms come with a private balony or terrace and are all smoke free. And don’t forget to check out the Westin Kierland Agave Spa. 3.GoldCanyonGolf Resort,Gold Canyon,Arizona The Gold Canyon Golf Resort is located amongArizona’sSuperstitionMountains, a name that generates an air of mystery and imagination. The great Apache war chief, Cochise, is reputedly buried somewhere among these mountains, and ancient tales of lost gold mines, including “The Lost Dutchman,” are considered by many to be fact rather than legend. And nowhere is the mystique more apparent than at the legendary Gold Canyon Golf Resort inArizona. Two courses designed by Ken Kavanaugh – the Dinosaur Mountain Course and the Sidewinder – take golfers deep into the High Sonoran desert where the solitude of the environment enhances an overall spiritual feeling that only comes when we are at one with nature. The Dinosaur Mountain Course offers a round of golf as exhilarating as you could wish for. The course is one spectacular vista of theSuperstitionMountains after another. The views from the course’s two signature holes – four and five – are beyond description; golf in theArizona desert does not come any better than this.DinosaurMountain has always been considered a players course, but in truth the placement of the tee boxes offers golfers of all levels of skill an enjoyable and challenging round. The Dinosaur, the number 1 rated public golf course inArizona, also ranks high among the most scenic courses in the Great Southwest. GoldCanyon’s second course, The Sidewinder, is noted for its creative design and the way it incorporates the undulating desert landscape. Its panoramic vistas are no less spectacular than those of theDinosaurMountain course. This is a course you’ll want to play more than once. 4. Phoenician Resort inScottsdale,Arizona The Phoenician Golf Resort inScottsdale,AZ, offers luxury accommodations in a setting of uncommon beauty and style. Amenities include 27 holes of championship golf, nine swimming pools, and aTennisGardenwith 11 lighted courts. The City ofScottsdaleis famous for its spas, and the Phoenician boasts of one of the finest: The Centre for Well-Being offers an amazing spa experience. For the kids, well the kids can enjoy fun-filled days at Funicians Kids Club while you grown-ups can go do your own thing on the golf course or at the spa. Finally, there’s the cuisine: from modern French to the authentic Italian flavors of Il Terrazzo, to the Southwest flavors of Windows on the Green. Activities: The Phoenician also offers a wide variety of family activities, including leisure and recreation options for adults, teens and children to enjoy individually. The staff can arrange personalized tours through the red rocks of Sedona, day trips to the Grand Canyon, visits to authentic western “ghost towns,” hikes through the pine covered mountains of Flagstaff and many other exciting Southwestern destinations. 5. The Legacy Golf Resort inPhoenix,Arizona Aside from its magnificent golf course, the Legacy Golf Resort inPhoenix,Arizona,offers a range of top-class amenities, including a sparkling pool, deluxe health club and an endless variety of recreational activities. The Legacy Golf Resort in Phoenix features 328 luxury guest suites housed in 12 separate buildings and decorated in Spanish mission-style with rich wood cabinetry and each suite features a full kitchen or kitchenette, spacious living area, and either a balcony or patio overlooking lush tropical courtyards and spectacular mountain views. The Legacy Golf Resort is located on what was once Dwight B. Heard’s 7,500-acre ranch. The resort is rich in heritage and history and the designers have preserved and integrated many of the structures and monuments, thus giving its 18-hole championship golf course a unique look and an added opportunity to experience some of Arizona’s history and the Heard legacy from which the resort takes its name. 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 inArizona. Award winning Realtors and Re/MAX top producers and best real estate agent for Luxury Homes inScottsdale, 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 forSaleand Estates forSaleinScottsdaleand to search the Scottsdale MLS for Scottsdale Home Listings.

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