Charter schools provide an alternative to traditional public schools

One of the many, but very important items on the checklist of things to do for a family relocating to the Phoenix area is researching schools.  Which school is the best school in the area we want to live? Which district is the best? Do they have extra-curricular activities? And the questions go on and on.  These families will also have to add another question that they may not have considered previously, “What about charter schools?”

Quick Facts about Arizona Charter Schools

Charter schools are public, state funded schools that came into existence as a result of legislation that was passed in 1994, making Arizona the 10th state to pass a charter school law at that time.  It is also known as one of the ”strongest” charter laws in the nation allowing a high degree of autonomy from traditional public school regulations.   The term of a school’s charter is 15 years with reviews every 5 years by the sponsoring board.    Charter schools are funded by the state based on student attendance and cannot charge tuition.

The reason why families coming to Arizona may have not heard much about charter schools prior to coming arriving in Arizona is that of the 4,000 charters issued in the U.S., over 500 are in Arizona. Approximately 25% of the state’s public schools are charter schools, and 10% of public school students are enrolled in charter schools, the highest percentage of any state in the nation.

Many parents and students feel more comfortable with a smaller school setting and charter schools have received positive press. Websites that provide more information include the Arizona Charter Schools Association, and the Arizona State Board for Charter Schools.  Some charter schools are some of the state’s top performing schools.

To see a list of charter schools in Arizona, click on the state charter school list.  Once you click on the school name and go to the school page, you’ll find the school report card immediately below the school name at the top. You can also search for charter schools by name, city, zip code, sponsor name or county.

All four of our sons have attended charter schools at some point during their education. I asked my wife if she thought it gave them a better educational experience.  Her reply was, “that depends on what you’re looking for”.  Charter schools tend to be smaller in student population and therefore cannot offer some of the programs of larger schools such as sports, band,  and do not provide transportation.  At the same time,  charter schools tend to focus more on a curriculum philosophy or specialty. Like any choice, there are pros and cons to any decision.   My advice would be to talk to parents of students who attend a specific charter school.

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Schools near lake communities

For more information, click on Schools in Arizona.

As home prices have declined in Arizona, the goal of many Canadian citizens of owning a home in the U.S.  has become a reality.  Instead of shoveling snow and battling freezing temperatures, Canadian second home owners can be dealing with other issues such as which golf course should I play today, or how early do I want to get up to go hiking or jogging, and where should we go for dinner.  I’ve also noticed that many Canadian homeowners who live on a lake in Canada have a desire to duplicate that scenic landscape and have inquired about lakefront homes in Phoenix.  When a buyer from Canada decides to pursue owning property in Arizona, there are some considerations they should be aware of.

Getting a loan in the U.S. as a Canadian citizen

A frequent question is, “Can a Canadian get a loan through a U.S. bank?”  It has been somewhat of a moving target; however, as of this writing there are companies that do offer loans to Canadians through a U.S. bank.  There are some conditions.  For example, one lender requires that the down payment must be at least 30% and the borrower must have 6 months reserve in a U.S. bank.  And the maximum loan amount is $417,000 and requires a 700 FICO score.  It’s best to talk to a loan officer that is familiar with these loan options.   If you’d like contact information on banks that do provide loans to Canadian citizens, please call me directly.

Earnest Money, Escrow and Signing

Earnest money which is used to open escrow once the offer has been accepted must be in U.S. funds.  Another difference is that in Arizona attorneys are typically not involved in the transaction.   Title/escrow companies take care of the title insurance and make sure the contract is executed as written.  This makes for a much more streamlined escrow and smooth closing process.  In fact, the buyer(s) do not need to be present at closing, and the necessary paperwork can be signed in Canada and sent via priority mail to the title/escrow company prior to closing.  Possession takes place once the transaction has recorded with the county recorder.

When a Canadian buyer is ready to place an offer on a house and no financing will be required since it will be a cash transaction, the proof of funds (typically a bank statement) may be required to be in U.S. funds.

Inspection Period

The 10 day inspection period begins once the offer has been accepted. During this time, it is the buyer’s opportunity and responsibility to inspection the property and the surrounding area in detail. The Arizona Department of Real Estate has provided the Buyer Advisory to assist buyers in their due diligence.

Most Arizona properties are platted and do not require a survey.   This is different from Canada where a surveyor’s certificate is required.

FIRPTA - The Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act

 The Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA) kicks in when the seller is a foreign person. Typcially not an issue when buying a property, it will come into play when selling.  One of the exemptions to FIRPTA is that the house sells for  less than $300,000.   It is in place to insure that foreign persons are not purchasing property only to sell it later at a profit without paying taxes.  A foreign person is a nonresident alien individual; a foreign corporation not treated as a domestic corporation; or a foreign partnership, trust or estate. A resident alien is not considered a foreign person under FIRPTA. IRS Publication 515 can provide more detailed information.

The Phoenix area provides a great second home get-away for Canadians looking for a repreive from the harsh winters.   For detailed information regarding Arizona homes for sale, contact me at your convenience. Or receive property listings via e-mail that fit your winter vacation home criteria.

Here’s some feedback from one of my favorite Canadian clients  last year who live in Alberta and their feedback on the process:

“Just thought that we’d drop you a quick note to let you know how much we enjoyed working with you on the recent purchase of our home in  Phoenix.  No surveyor’s certificate and no legal fees made the process a lot less stressful than buying our home in Alberta. 
 
We, seriously, don’t know how we would have managed without you.  Since the inspections, utilities hook-ups, and all the paperwork were initiated by you, all we had to do was - literally - get the key and move in.
 
So “THANK YOU” and be assured than we are passing your information on to anyone we meet who talks about investing in property in Arizona.
 
All the best,
Jim & Annette
Millet,  Alberta  ”

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Gilbert Waterfront Homes and Lake Communities

Second Home Search

Gilbert is known for many things.  A safe community with a family friendly atmosphere.  A  great place to raise children with a high quality of life.  A growing community with  highly rated schools.  Good freeway access to Phoenix and surrounding areas.  Affordable homes including waterfront and lake communities and award winning hospitals.   All in all, Gilbert is one of the most desireable towns in the Phoenix valley.   For a sample of some of the things that make Gilbert such a popluar community, read on.

Riparian Preserve  A truely unique destination in Gilbert.  This 110 acre park is an integral part of Gilbert’s water conservation commitment.  It provides residents a fishing lake stocked with catfish, trout, bass, and sunfish by the Arizona Game and Fish Department. In addition, there are 70 acres of recharge lakes that are home to over 200 species of birds, and 4.5 miles of trails.  The recharges basins or lakes provide a Riparian habitat and also a means for Gilbert effluent water to transfer back into underground aquifers and replenish important ground water.  There is an Observatory that is open to the public every Friday and Saturday night from nightfall to 9 p.m.  A $3 donation is requested.   To find out everything that is going on at the Riparian Preserve, to go the events calendar to classes and times.

Southeast Regional Library  The Maricopa County Southeast Regional library is located adjacent to the Riparian Preserve and offers the best views of any library in the state. Built in 1999, this 66,000 sq.ft. award winning  library offers patrons access to internet accessible public computers and state of the art library facilities.  It is located at the southeast corner of Greenfield and Guadalupe Rd.  Hours are from Mon-Thurs. 10 am – 9 p.m, Friday & Saturday 10 am – 5 pm, and Sunday 1 pm – 5 pm.

Hale  Centre Theatre -Arizona  Located in historic downtown Gilbert, the unique center stage configuration ensures that there are no bad seats.  The company originally started in Glendale, California in 1947 to a meager opening night audience of 6, but it has not  missed a week of presenting high quality, affordable entertainment since its humble beginning.  The Hale Centre Theatre in Gilbert opened in July 2003 and has been entertaining patrons ever since. 

 Town of Gilbert Parks  – The Town of Gilbert has some of the best parks in the Phoenix valley.  For a full inventory of the parks, public pools and facilities , go to Gilbert Parks.

Freestone Park    The largest of the Town of Gilbert Parks, Freestone provides a buffet of recreational activities.  Multiple soccer fields, batting cages, 4 softball fields, tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, play areas, an amphitheatre, and a 22,000 sq.ft. skate park with features to accomodate all skill levels.   

The recent addition of the $6.75 million Freestone Recreation Center provides 51,000 sq.ft. of family focused fun and recreation.  Within the award winning architecture building is a rock climbing wall, racquetball courts, a running track, dance & aerobics room, childcare center and weight room.

McQueen Regional Park  Located in the northwest park of Gilbert is McQueen Park and Recreation Center which sits on 40 acres, but only has about 500 ft. of  frontage on McQueen Rd., so it’s easy to miss.        McQueen Park Satellite View     There are sand volleyball courts, tennis courts, softball diamonds, soccer fields, and running trails.   The 27,000 sq.ft.  McQueen Park Activity Center is host to a gymnasium , game room with Wii, X-box and play station systems, pool table, ping pong, foosball, air hockey, a lobby with a 51″ TV and rooms for leisure pursuit classes.  There is pleny of area to hang out or go outside and walk around the 2 acre lake that is to the west of the center.

 Cosmo Dog Park  If you have a dog, then add the Cosmo Dog Park to your list of places to visit, especially if they love to swim.  Cosmo Dog Park was the winner of DOG FANCY’s Dog Park of the Year for 2007, a year after opening in July 2006.   It is the only Dog Park in the Phoenix area with a lake, which many dogs thoroughly love! A detailed map shows the many amenities offered in this dog paradise.  The 4 acre park provides two dog wash stations, a wet dog area,  an lighted open dog park, and a timid dog area.  This is in addition to the ramadas, walking trails, basketball court, restroom,  picnic tables and amphitheatre.  For the location check the Google Map of Cosmo Dog Park.

Polar Ice Rink  The 76,000 sq.ft. Polar Ice Gilbert facility was introduced to the public on Sept. 13, 2008. It is conveniently located near the 202 freeway at the north end of Crossroads Park at Greenfield and Knox.  Satellite view of Polar Ice Gilbert In the development of the facility, environmental features such as low energy fluorescent lighting, skylights and a state of the art ice cooling system that cost over $120,000 have been incorporated into the design.  The two rinks in the facility provide 17,000 sq.ft. of skating enjoyment.  

Polar Ice offers public skating, hockey leagues and classes offered through the Gilbert Parks and Recreations department.  It also hosts games for the ASU Hockey clubs.

Running and Biking Trails   The development of recreational paths along SRP canals has become an attractive amenity in many cities.   Bikers and joggers will be most familiar with the paths since they offer a welcome alternative to narrow sidewalks, inattentive passing cars and frequent crossings at stop lights. Websites that cater to runners and joggers even calculate the mileage between beginning and ending points along different canals. Consolidated Canal Running Route  or the Western Canal Mileage Calculator. 

In Gilbert,  the Western Canal Powerline /Sun Circle Trail runs east and west, connecting Big League Dreams, the Riparian Preserve, Freestone Park and the McQueen District Park in a 8.5 mile stretch. It continues west into Chandler and also Tempe.  Anyone looking for a peaceful bike ride or jog will find this trail enjoyable and with much less congestion than a street sidewalk with cars racing past at 45 miles/hour.

Big League Dreams  is located near Power and Elliot Rd in east Gilbert, and represents a public/private venture on 60 acres that offers a unique facility unlike anything in the state.   There are eight scaled down versions of real ballparks, past and present;  including Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park, Wrigley Field, Polo Grounds, Ebbets Field, Angel Stadium, Sportman’s Park, and to appease the local crowd, Chase Field. Each ballpark has seating for 190 spectators.  There are two clubhouses that provide food and beverages.  Once you see the prices for the soda pop,   you’ll make a quick note to fill up the cooler the next visit.   Besides softball leagues, there is also an indoor soccer  complex that is well utilized.

Joe’s Real Barbeque  One of my favorite restaurants in the center of downtown Gilbert.   Joe’s opened for business in January 1998 and has been satisfying cravings for barbeque brisket, pulled pork, pit ham, pork ribs, chicken and turkey breast ever since.  The food is award winning and you’ll also appreciate the old-style atmosphere that is one of a kind.  Where else will you find a  1948 John Deere tractor in the middle of the dining area?  The New Times awarded Joe’s the Best of Phoenix for Old-Fashioned Charm. If you are into sauces, you  have your choice of spicy, or “we dare you” hot which uses habanero peppers to turn up the heat.   My favorite lunch time meal is the BBQ sampler with over 3/4 lb. of ribs, chicken, pork and beef.  Most plates are in the $8 – $12 range.  What more can I say, you have to try it!

San Tan Village Outdoor Shopping Center   San Tan Village located at Williams Field and the Santan 202 freeway is comprised of two sections; the shopping center and the urban village.  For a layout of both click on San Tan Village Shopping Center layout.   The list of stores is almost endless as seen in the Story Directory  The layout of the the urban village is nothing new, but the uncommon outdoor layout for the shopping center is a unique twist, especially for Phoenix when  outdoors in the summer is synonymous  with 110 degree days.  That misting system better work! 

Places to eat include Paradise Bakery & Cafe, Johnny Rockets, Famous Dave’s, Blue Wasabi Sushi & Martini Bar, Cantina Laredo and the Kona Grill among others.  After a relaxing dinner, the Harkins Theatres complex is just a short walk away.

Golf Courses – Gilbert is home to 5 golf courses; Kokopelli, Trilogy, Western Skies, Seville Country Club, and Greenfield Lakes. All are public course except for Seville.  A golfing friend of mine ranks Trilogy as the best in Gilbert. 

As you can see, Gilbert has a lot of offer its residents and neighbors.  Feel free to comment on some of the activities or attractions that you enjoy in Gilbert.

Gilbert also provides some of the best real estate options in Arizona.   For assistance with real estate needs, feel free to sign up for Gilbert Real Estate listings. Or if you live in Gilbert and want to know the value of your home. To search for homes visit, Gilbert Real Estate.

According to CQ Press, an independent publisher, Gilbert is among the safest cities in the United States, 24th among cities with over 75,000. For municipalities in Arizona, Gilbert ranks as the safest community.  The analysis used crime and population data as reported to the FBI by local law enforcement agencies for 2008.

This is great news for lovers of Gilbert waterfront homes, lake communities,  water ski lake homes and wakeboard aficionados that are looking at homes or property in such subdivisions as The Islands, Val Vista Lakes, Playa del Rey Estates, Crystal Point, Santan Lakeside Estates, Stonebridge Lakes, Wind Drift and Lago Estancia.

A Safe And Great Place For A Family

The report confirms other surveys,  such as the one from Business Week in November 2008, that Gilbert is great place to raise children .

Here are some reasons why Gilbert ranks high with those who choose to make it their home. Gilbert has some awesome parks.  You have to start off with Freestone Park, the largest city park in Gilbert. (Make sure you click through on the links!)  And if you live in west Gilbert, 40 acre McQueen Park is close by. A “must visit” is the Riparian Preserve which has gained national attention and includes a catch and release fishing lake.   Your canine companion will love you to death when you visit Gilbert’s Cosmo Dog Park. While not a park, you may be surprised to learn that Gilbert has an ice skating rink at Polar Ice. And baseball fanatics will enjoy Big League Dreams.

While Gilbert is not the center of night life and entertainment, one of my favorites is the Hale Centre Theatre in historic downtown Gilbert.    A recent addition to the commerical sector is the opening of Santan Village, an outdoor shopping mall.  Don’t ask me what it’s like in the summer.  I try and stay away from malls any time of the year.  It is very accessible with the newer 202 freeway.  That’s a dangerous combination, a highly accessible new retail center!

Right next to the Riparian Preserve is the Southeast Regional Library.  It has some of the best views in the valley, sitting in the library reading with a view of the fishing lake just outside the window.

If you prefer the outdoors, the Peralta Trails trailhead is about a 20 minute drive from Gilbert, and just a little further away is Canyon Lake for fishermen and boaters.

For those looking for a safe and family friendly community in the Phoenix area,  it would be wise to put Gilbert on your list of places to check out.

If you’re interested in available homes for sale  in Gilbert, let me know what you’re looking for. Or my GilbertHomesearch page.

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Things to do in Gilbert

Phoenix

In your quest for Phoenix lake communities that have waterfronthomes, any search would be incomplete if you didn’t consider the eight waterfront communities in Gilbert.  I’m not counting  subdivisions that have a community lake at the entrance or near the clubhouse.  These are communities in which some of the homes are on waterfront lots.  Specifically, these Gilbert waterfront lake communities are Val Vista Lakes, The Islands, Crystal Point, Santan Lakeside Estates, Playa del Rey,  Lago Estancia, Stonebridge Estates, and Wind Drift.

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Few think of lake communities in Phoenix Arizona

When home buyers think of  Phoenix Arizona real estate, the last thing that comes to mind is a home on a lake.  Admittedly, they are man made lakes.  A common request is a waterfront lot on one of the reserviors around Phoenix on the Salt and Verde rivers. These  do not have any private land,  and  are critical components of the watershed system managed by SRP.  In fact they are also man made, starting with Roosevelt Dam and Lake in 1911.

Lake communities in Gilbert offer variety – Community Overview

Each lake community offers a dimension of variety to offset the perception that all Phoenix communities that tend to look the same.

Val Vista Lakes is one of the largest Gilbert waterfront communities in the east valley. The 900 acre development offers 24 residential subdivisions and one of the best community clubhouses and recreation centers in the valley.  This amenity-rich community has repeatedly been awarded the Neighborhood of the Year Award by the Town of Gilbert.  It is also home to Val Vista Lakes Elementary, conveniently located within the development.  Residential options range from townhouses in Beach Club Village to luxury waterfront homes in gated West Lake Estates.

Val Vista Lake Homes for Sale

View of Val Vista Lakes

Val Vista Lakes is located nearby many favorite Gilbert attractions such as Dana Park Village Square, Santan Village, Big League Dreams, Joe’s Farmhouse Grill, Cosmo Dog Park, and the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch.

The Islands Lake Community, located in southwest Gilbert features homes built between 1987 and 1995, with a range of properties from townhouses to luxury waterfront homes.  The mature landscaping that lines the streets and lakes gives the community a lush green feel appreciated by all residents. The Islands, approximately 800 acres, is make up of popular floorplans by builders such as UDC, Blandford, Continental, Hunter, and US Homes as well as custom and semi-custom homes.

Homes for Sale in The Islands

Satellite View of The Islands

Only minutes away is  McQueen Park to the north. Also nearby is Historic Downtown Gilbert and Hale Centre Theatre.

Lago Estancia, is a short distance to the east of The Islands, and one of the smaller Gilbert lake communities with around 100 waterfront homes.  A distinguishing characteristic of the subdivision is the generous number of walking paths around the lake. Most of the waterfront homes are separated from the lake by a view fence.

Homes for Sale in Lago Estancia

View of Lago Estancia

The smaller community with the walking paths around much of the lake perimeter gives this waterfront community a close knit feel and the opportunity for all to enjoy the lake community atmosphere.

Stonebridge Lakes is made up of two subdivisions, Stonebridge Lakes Estates and Stonebridge Lakes Manor.  Stonebridge Lakes Manor includes front yard landscaping as part of the HOA fee.  This lake community features houses built mostly in the early 1990′s.  It is located almost directly across from Freestone Park.  The Gilbert Heritage Trail, a favorite jogging and riding path passes right by Stonebridge Lakes. Stonebridge Lakes also offers it’s residents the choice of two community pools.

Satellite View of Stonebridge Lakes

Homes for sale in Stonebridge Lakes

Wind Drift has the fewest lakefront lots in it’s subdivision, approximately 50. Wind Drift is definitely in the middle of what’s happening in Gilbert.  Gilbert High is almost directly across the street and Freestone Park is it’s neighbor to the north.

Homes for Sale in Wind Drift

Satellite view of Wind Drift

Gilbert’s Waterski Lake Communities

Unique to Gilbert are it’s water ski lake communities.  Of the 6 in the valley, 3 are in Gilbert.

Playa del Rey Estates has the most waterfront ski lake properties of the three.  There are approximately 130 homes in Playa del Rey and all have access to the lake.  Shorter than a slalom ski lake, the length is around 1,150 ft. long with a island in the middle, perfect for family water skiing or wakeboarding.

Homes for sale in Playa del Rey Estates

Satellite view of Playa del Rey Estates

Crystal Point Estates is the most established competition ski lake in Gilbert.  18 luxury homes surround the 2,250 ft. length lake.  Crystal Point is a short 20 minute drive to the airport and convenient to many Gilbert amenities, yet secluded within the gated community which offers practically year round skiing and a lifestyle for those who love water skiing.

Crystal Point Homes for Sale

View of Crystal Point Estates

Santan Lakeside Estates is located in south Gilbert with luxury homes that enjoy a water ski lake at the foot of the San Tan mountains.  The one acre lots at Santan Lakeside Estates provide 235 feet of lakeside waterfront.  About half of the 20 lot subdivision is built out.  Make sure to check out this video of Santan Lakeside Estates waterskiing.

Santan Lakeside Luxury Homes for Sale

View of Santan Lakeside Estates

As you can see, there are many options available for those who wish to call Gilbert home and do it in a peaceful lake community or waterfront lot.  For more details, don’t hesitate to call or e-mail me.

Few would have thought it possible to find a lake community with such close proximity to the mountains.  Arrowhead Ranch in Glendale creates such an experience.  This may come as a surprise for an area with  humble beginnings as a citrus farm on approximately 5,000 acres that was conceived back in the late 70′s.    In 2008, Arrowhead Ranch was voted “Best Neighborhood” in the Phoenix valley by readers of azcentral.com.

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Inviting family oriented amenities surround Arrowhead Ranch.

Arrowhead is ideally located at the foot of  Hedgpeth hills and  1,185 acre  Thunderbird Mountain Park to the north with the 101 loop to the south.   The 101 loop offers the significant advantage of  making the entire valley more accessible, and reduced commuting times.  A little more than 4 miles to the northeast  is Wet N’ Wild Water Park on  Pinnacle Peak that looks increasing attractive as summer months approach. Continue traveling east less than half a mile and Adobe Dam Family Golf Center is on your left.  Heading west then south on the 101 loop from Arrowhead Ranch, you’ll be pleased by the easy and quick access to Arrowhead Towne Center that is also know as Arrowhead Mall which offers over 170 stores and restaurants, less than 5 miles away.  Also 5 miles to the south is Banner Thunderbird Hospital.  Or John C. Lincoln Hospital Deer Valley is only 4 miles to the east.  Golf enthusiats will enjoy Legend Gold Resort .  Do you getting the feeling that everything is less than a 10 minute drive away?  Highly rated Deer Valley Unified Schools serve the Arrowhead Ranch area.

Satellite view of Arrowhead

To find out the types of homes available in this lake community, click on Homes for sale in Arrowhead Ranch.  This is clearly one of the best waterfront lake communities on the west side of Phoenix.   Please don’t hesitate to call or e-mail with further questions, or if you’d like to receive updates of Arrowhead real estate for sale, click on  Arrowhead homes for sale.

The next time you turn on the faucet or take a shower, take time to realize that you live in a desert where the average rainfall in the Phoenix valley is less than 9 inches/year but  the average person uses 150 gallons of water PER day.  So how do we satisfy our “thirst” for water that exceeds our natural supply  in the valley?

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Water sources that we depend upon

City and towns in Phoenix depend upon a combination of water sources or supplies.  Each city depends on these sources in varying degrees.

• SRP water that comes from the Salt and Verde River watersheds.
• Colorado River water that is delivered via the Central Arizona Project (CAP) canal.
• Ground water that is pumped from aquifers below the surface.
• Reclaimed water that is treated and used for non-potable uses.

SRP water from the Salt and Verde watersheds

SRP delivers water from the Salt and Verde rivers to cities that have water rights that are “appurtenant” or connected to the land.  The cities that have water rights to water from the Salt and Verde watersheds that is delivered via the SRP are Avondale, Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale, Mesa, Peoria, Phoenix,  Scottsdale, Tempe and Tolleson.  Each city receives water based on the land included in the SRP service area for which they have water rights.  The service area does not necessarily align with city boundaries.  Gilbert for example, has 12,585 acres of land with no SRP water rights.   The total SRP service area consists of 248,000 acres and draws from the Salt and Verde river watersheds that cover 13,000 square miles, or approximately 11% of the state of Arizona (114,000 sq.miles).

SRP water is stored in 6 reserviors;  4 on the Salt River and 2 on the Verde River.  Roosevelt Lake, the largest lake in Arizona,  represents 70%  of SRP’s storage capacity is located on the Salt river along with Apache Lake, Canyon Lake and Saguaro Lake.   Horseshoe and Bartlett reserviors are located on the Verde river.  It is possible to check the water levels of the SRP reserviors.    Here’s more information on the dams and reservoirs managed by SRP.                                               

Over 100 years ago in 1903, the articles of incorporation were filed in Maricopa county by the Salt River Valley Water Users Association, (SRVWUA).  In 1904, the federal government and SRVWUA signed an agreement to build Roosevelt Dam, with the members of SRVWUA pledging more than 200,000 acres of their land as collateral for the federal construction loan.   Construction of the dam was completed in 1911 at a cost of $3.8 million.

As you drive through the east valley, you’ll notice the SRP canals which are used to transport water to industrial, municipal and agricultural irrigation customers throughout the SRP service area.  The 131 miles of SRP canal have become a favorite with those that enjoy walking and jogging.

SRP currently delivers more than 1 million acre feet of water to the water service area.  SRP water is treated in city water treatment plants before being delivered to customers.

Colorado River Water via the Central Arizona Project (CAP)

In 1922, the signing of the Colorado River Compact divided 7 seven states into the Upper Basin (Utah, New Mexico, Wyoming and Colorado) and Lower Basin (Arizona,  Nevada and California) with the intent to divide the Colorado river equally between the Upper Basin and Lower Basin states.  Within 5 months of the signing,  all states ratified the agreement except Arizona!  It was not until 1944 that Arizona ratified the compact, 22 years later mainly because of allocation issues with California.   Arizona continued to dispute allocations until the Supreme Court finalized the allocations in the 1964 decision, Arizona vs. California.   Arizona’s current allocation is 2.8 million acre feet / year.  The Colorado river drains 244,000 square miles across the seven states that comprise the Upper and Lower Basin states.  Because of the dependency of these seven states and Mexico on the Colorado river,  historian Norris Hundley, Jr. stated that the Colorado river has been the most litigated, regulated, politicized, and argued-about river in the world.

In light of this history,  it is amazing that Senator John McCain,  GOP presidential candidate suggested in Aug. 2008, that the 1922 Colorado River Compact be renegotiated due to the population growth in the Lower Basin states. Ouch! That’s one way to lose votes in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Wyoming.  Or was it to gain votes in Nevada, Arizona and California! Later, while in Colorado he said he would “never ever” try to take more of Colorado’s water.  He found out the meaning of the expression, “Whiskey is for drinking, water is for fighting,”.

Getting Colorado River water to Phoenix

The Central Arizona Project (CAP) is a 336 mile system of aquaducts, tunnels, pumping stations, and pipelines  that carry water from the  Colorado River in  Lake Havasu to central and southern Arizona. The project cost $4.4 billion and was conceived in the 1960′s with the purpose of helping Arizona use its allotment of water from the Colorado river.  It is designed to bring 1.5 million acre feet of Colorado River water to Pima, Pinal, and Maricopa counties and is owned and operated by the United States Bureau of Reclamation.

Once it arrives, the water quality level is not of sufficient quality  for human consumption.  The final step is to pass through a water treatment plant which many confuse for a water reclamation plant used to treat sewage.    The Town of Gilbert and the City of Chandler recently opened a $102 million  high tech water treatment plant for water received from the Colorado River.  The plant uses “ballasted flocculation” to treat Central Arizona Project water.  At the current capacity, the plant can produce up to 24 million gallons of water per day.  Each city has the right to half the capacity.

Ground Water

For many years ground water has been pumped from the ground faster than it has been replaced,  creating a condition called “overdraft”.  As groundwater levels fall, it is more expensive to pump and the water quality diminishes. This is an on-going issue for the valley because many areas rely on groundwater as their primary water supply.

To address this issue, the Arizona Groundwater Management Code was passed  in 1980.  Part of the code was the establishment of 5 Active Management Area’s (AMA’s) where the overdraft was the most severe.  For the Phoenix, Prescott and Tucson AMA’s the primary goal is safe yield by the year 2025.  Safe yield is defined as the long term balance of ground water withdrawn and natural and artificial recharge of the aquifer.

Reclaimed Water

Reclaimed water is a valuable resource and has a variety of uses, with the most important trait being it reduces the dependence on other sources of wate; namely ground water and surface water.  Reclaimed water is primarily used for industrial purposes, irrigation of golf courses, parks, highway medians, common areas in communities, and providing  decorative lakes which act as above ground storage facilities, and ground water recharge.  Gilbert along with other cities in the Phoenix area are committed to using 100% of their reclaimed water.

Ground water recharge using reclaimed water

Most people would not even know that the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch is home to 7 recharge ponds.  Reclaimed water is piped to the recharge ponds where it enters the underground aquifer and in the process goes through the natural filtering process, and helps replace groundwater that has been withdrawn.   The Central Arizona Project also manages recharge projects with the goal of assisting in groundwater recharge.  Chandler’s Veterans Oasis Park is similar to the Riparian Preserve in that it serves as a recreational andenvironmental education facility and a recharge facility that uses reclaimed water to recharge the aquifer and create a wetland environment.

Believe it or not, I’ve only touched the surface of water management in Arizona.  The more you learn about it the more you realize there is so much more to learn.   The water we enjoy in Arizona now is the result of preparation and work that began over 100 years ago with tireless work by many.  That diligence continues  today by stewards of Arizona’s most precious resource so that it is as easy as turning on the tap. Our responsibility is to use it wisely, enjoy it and conserve it so that we can continue to enjoy this oasis in the desert.

As of this writing there are 635 listings for homes with basements in the Phoenix metro area, out of  a total of 25,941 listings for single family homes.  Less than 2.5% of the total homes available for sale have basements.  Those that have moved here from other states, which is about everyone,  always ask why the scarcity of basement homes.   You’ll certainly get a variety of answers.  Read on for the real reasons!

No, the ground isn’t hard!

Scott Wall, the founder of The Wall Company which specializes in the construction of basements estimates that less than 5% of the basements in the southwest require a “hard dig”.  All of the myths come back to a single reason which is the added cost.  It is less expensive to add a second floor than  a basement.  In Phoenix the frost line is about 18 inches compared to 4 – 5 feet in colder climates, so while in other parts of the country construction requires more excavation regardless,  in our warmer climate it is truly an added expense.   It can add $20 – $25/sq.ft. to the cost of construction and add up to 30 days to the construction time line. The benefits however are very tangible.  During the summer, when the ambient temperature can reach 115 degrees, the soil temperature 4 feet below ground averages  72 degrees.

Where do I look for a basement home?

The green dots or small rectangles on the map represent homes for sale

that have a basement. If you are looking for a basement, the east valley which includes Gilbert, Mesa, Chandler and Scottsdale is where you’ll find almost half of the basement homes in the Phoenix area.  This conclusion is based on the current listings which may or may not be representative of all basement homes and their location.

Gilbert basement homes

Chandler basement homes

Scottsdale basement homes

Mesa basement homes

***Send me listngs of basement homes as they become available.

Basement homes in lake communities

Now if you are trying to find a basement home in a lake subdivision or on a waterfront lot, the search becomes even more narrow.  Of the 635, only 13 are waterfront homes with a basement, and 27 are in a lake community.  To find that rare jewel, a waterfront home  with a basement;  look in  The Islands and Val Vista Lakes in Gilbert, Ocotillo Lakes and Pinelake Estates in Chandler, Lakewood in the Ahwatukee foothills, and Arrowhead Lakes in Glendale.

Waterfront basement homes

Basement homes have become more popular and an option with many new home builders.   The basements typically consist of a large family room, two or three bedrooms, and a bathroom, adding from 1,200 – 2,000 square feet to the total living space.  Unlike other parts of the country, basements are counted in the total living area.  For more information about basement homes in Gilbert, Chandler, Scottsdale, Mesa or other areas in the Phoenix area, don’t hesitate to call or e-mail me.

The media continues to publish at every chance the woes of the housing industry; mortgage meltdown, rising foreclosures, negative equity and short sales, builders declaring bankruptcy, rising unemployment, etc.  These are valid concerns and I see them taking their toll everyday.  But somedays, it doesn’t feel like it.  Especially when there multiple offers on short sale after just three days!  Or competing with 9 other offers for a lender owned property that has been on the market for a week.  It feels like 2005 again. But the typical buyer response is “But it’s a buyers market.” Or ” I just read that home prices are still going down!”  I believe that the Phoenix metropolitan area median price will continue to trend downward this year, but remember it is the median calculation for an extremely large market covering many sub-markets and price ranges.  Real estate is local and cannot be lumped into one all inclusive headline as the media loves to do. So let’s break it down by price range and cities.

Current Real Estate Trends in Phoenix and the east valley

To better understand what is happening, let’s look at the graphs below starting with the months of supply by price range for the Phoenix area.  If 6 months is a normal supply, homes priced at $275K and below are falling into a normal market. Up to $175K, the months of supply is clearly below that of a normal market.  If you are looking for a home above $500K and can get a loan, chances are you’ll enjoy a plentiful supply of single family home choices, since the supply of homes is over 1 year.

The next graph, based on the number of pending sales and broken down by city for single family homes shows how buyers are reacting to the current environment of rock bottom home prices, historically low interest rates, and goverment incentives for first time home buyers.  Pending sales are those under contract that will typically close in the next 45 days.  The second graph focuses on east valley cities including Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Scottsdale, Queen Creek and Tempe.  Buyers are taking advantage of the current market.  The lower the price, the more intense the competition.  So listen to the media, but you’d better watch the numbers because we have some interesting things happening!   While they paint the doom and gloom picture, buyers are quietly taking advantage of the market in increasing numbers.

The Big League Dreams Park in Gilbert  has received plenty of exposure since opening in January of 2008.  Critics cite the $40 million cost, originally estimated at $26 million, and deteriorating field conditions since opening day. Town officials defend the public/private partnership as a way to attract outside revenue and an alternative to traditional subsidized recreational activities.   Add in the sometimes bumpy relationship with Big League Dreams that operates the park and there is no doubt the first year of operation has been more eventful than anyone expected.

Replicas of  famous baseball stadiums

There are eight scaled down versions of real ballparks, past and present;  including Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park, Wrigley Field, Polo Grounds, Ebbets Field, Angel Stadium, Sportman’s Park, and to appease the local crowd, Chase Field. Each ballpark has seating for 190 spectators.  There are two clubhouses that provide food and beverages.  Once you see the prices for the soda pop,   you’ll make a quick note to fill up the cooler the next visit.   Continuing the baseball focus, the park also has installed batting cages.   I was  very impressed with the  26,000 sq.ft.  indoor soccer complex, and the intense co-ed soccer game that was in progess.   At least the artificial turf in the soccer facility won’t become an issue!    After reading  the complaints about the condition of the lawn I went back and reviewed the pictures I took and while it does not look as good as opening day, it appears that improvement has been made.

The Friday night I visited the park, it was busy with slow pitch baseball games in most of the parks. The indoor soccer facility was busy as well as the batting cages.  The parking lot was full so in spite of the on-going controversy, it appears that someone is enjoying the facility and the kinks are being worked out.

Whether the $40 million investment was a wise one will become more evident in the coming years when Gilbert starts receiving 6% of the revenue starting in 2011. Until then, expect the continuing debate from both sides.  But regardless of what you read, make sure and visit the 60 acre Big League Dreams in Gilbert near Power Rd. and Elliot and come to your own conclusion. It is impressive and worth the visit, and your tax dollars paid for it!

Satellite view of Gilbert Big League Dreams (The map may not be up to date since the park opened in Jan. 2008)