Phoenix Arizona Waterfront Homes

Fountain Hills lakefront residents enjoy fountain view

While there are very few true waterfront homes in Fountain Hills, many condos and single family homes are strategically positioned to take advantage of awesome views  from the back patio or front porch of a world famous fountain that shoots up over 300 feet every hour. These Fountain Hills  lake view homes are a unique phenomenon in a community that has some of the most scenic mountain views in the valley.

Satellite view of Fountain Hills

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Goodyear Waterfront Homes and Lake Community

Estrella Mountain Ranch in Goodyear is home to its’ largest lake community that according to planning documents has the potential to grow to 50,000 homes and 1,600 acres of commercial development.  This secluded secluded community has one of the best community centers, resident waterpark and community pools in the west valley, and is located right next to the 19,840 acre Estrella Mountain Regional Park.  Nestled next to the Sierra Estrella mountains just 8 miles south of the I-10,  Estrella Mountain residents enjoy over 40 acres of parks that include pathways, pavilions, an amphitheater, basketball, tennis and volleyball courts.  On the lake north lake is the Yacht Club that offers sailboats, paddle boats, canoes, and kayaks.  Estrella is also home to a Nicklaus-designed championship golf course.

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Gated Lake Subdivisions and Waterfront Property

When looking for Phoenix area waterfront homes, your dream home could be hiding behind one of the gated lake communities featuring waterfront homes. These unique gated subdivisions are spread throughout the valley in cities and towns such as Chandler, Mesa, Maricopa, Scottsdale, Tempe and Gilbert among others.

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 Gainey Ranch - outstanding combination of lakes and green fairways

This prestigous Scottsdale community takes its name from Daniel C. Gainey,  the original owner and Minnesotan.  It was James Kilday,  the founder and CEO of Markland Properties who acquired 560 acres of the original 640 acres owned by Daniel Gainey that had  the vision of creating  a luxury resort community.

Gainey Ranch is a mixed use community comprised of residential, commercial office buildings, a private  golf course, and a luxury hotel.  The residential portion of Gainey Ranch occupies approximately 264 acres, less than half of the 560 acres.   The Gainey Ranch master planned community also includes commerical office buildings,  the Hyatt Hotel and an award winning 27 hole private golf course , Gainey Ranch Golf Club. 

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Chandler Lakefront Condos at Lakeside Village at Andersen Springs

Lakeside Village at Andersen Springs occupies the other side of the lake from Lakeshore at Andersen Springs.   The complex features a tennis court, spa and two community pools.  Another unique feature is the lakefront stores and restaurants on the opposite side of the lake, all within walking distance.  Within minutes is the newer 202 freeway and Chandler Fashion mall.

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Sometimes you swear at them and sometimes you swear by them

Let’s face it, if you are considering purchasing a home in the Phoenix area; whether it be Avondale, Scottsdale, Gilbert, or Gold Canyon, you will have to come to terms about buying a home that is part of a Home Owners Association.   When a buyer purchases property that has an HOA, they  automatically agree to abide by the governing documents which are the CC&R’s; Conditions, Covenants and Restrictions.   While many CC&R’s are typically very boiler plate, it is a good idea to review them and make sure there are no hidden surprises.  Even better, talk to your future neighbors and inquire about their experience.

If you are looking to speak out against HOAs, you’ll have plenty of company because at times they do some pretty dumb stuff and deserve the criticism.  At the same time, attend any of the regularly scheduled meetings and see how many residents come to participate, offer suggestions and be involved.  That number is in the single digits and I’m estimating on the high side. If residents are concerned or upset, they should get involved, contribute, and help shape the neighborhood.   I’ve gotten a little upset over a couple of letters I received that I thought were unneccesary, but I also remember being thankful when a neighbor’s mother came to visit for a while in her aged travel trailer that was definitely an eye sore!  I’m glad they did the dirty work of letting the neighbhor know that is not allowed.  Like I said, sometime you swear at them and sometimes you swear by them. For a more legalistic viewpoint, here’s a link to a website explaining homeowner’s rights.

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 Edgewater Waterfront Condos at Hayden Ferry Lakeside

 The first Hayden Ferry Lakeside waterfront condo tower was Edgewater with 40 units that sold out in 2006.  It was rare to see a sale price less than$500K. Now a sale price over $500K would be equally surprising.  Sold near the height of the real estate peak, prices are resetting through foreclosures and short sales, or the rare instance where the owner has enough equity and is willing to list at market value.  A good example is a recently listed 1,650 sq.ft. 3rd floor bank owned condo that originally sold for $625,000 in June of 2006.  It is now listed at $282,900,  or 45% of the orginal sales price. 

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Is one Phoenix valley city more expensive to live than another?

When someone is relocating to Arizona, I liken it to drinking out of a firehose.  There is so much information, both qualitative and quantitative, to digest (or swallow) that it is an overwhelming task.   Many future home buyers want to know about property tax differences between cities. But nobody ever asks about the difference between the overall tax burden including utilities.  The Arizona Republic published an article on April 4, 2010 that attempts to compare the cumulative effect of taxes and fees for some of the major Phoenix valley cities.

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Ventana Lakes Community Spans Two Cities and Two Zip Codes

Ventana Lakes lake community is the only community that I know of  in the Phoenix valley that is part of two cities, Peoria and Sun City, and covered by two zip codes, 85373 and 85382.  Those residents that live west of 107 Ave. are in Sun City 85373, while the Ventana Lakes residents on the east of 107th Ave. are part of Peoria 85382.  Regardless of the city or zip code, all belong to the Ventana  Lakes Property Owners Association. Ventana Lakes , situated on 480 acres, has been recognized as the “Adult Community for the Young-at-Heart”.

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Phoenix Lakeside Property Offers Views and Amenities

Phoenix lake community condos and townhouses are appealing because of the waterfront property views, low maintenance and community amenities such as a community pool and spa.  This is especially attractive to Canadians and those from the mid-west with harsh winters that want more moderate weather with a turn key vacation or second home.  No yardwork or maintenance to worry about, just bring your suitcase and front door key.

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