Did you know that for the last decade, Maricopa County (aka the Phoenix-Metro Area) has been the fastest growing county in the US. From 2010 to 2020, Maricopa County grew by more than 750,000 residents.In 2022, the US Census Bureau estimated that an average of 156 people moved to Maricopa County daily. That equates to roughly ~57,000 people annually. So why are young professionals, families and retirees moving here in droves? Let’s take a closer look:1. Our tax policies, geographic location, and right-to-work status have elicited numerous technology and engineering companies, both domestic and international, to either relocate or open additional manufacturing and distribution centers across the Valley. 2. Low Property Taxes are also a key factor. According to Rocket Mortgage, AZ ranked 13th out of the 50 states and the District of Columbia for lowest property taxes, coming in at a .66% real estate tax rate. Hawaii ranked the lowest at .28% and New Jersey ranked the highest at 2.49%. 3. Our weather is next to perfection. Sure it’s hot as hades for a few months, but we challenge you to tell us where else you can get 300+ days of sunshine, little to no humidity, mild rain fall, plus 8 months of temps between 60-100 degrees. 4. In 2023, Arizona adopted a flat tax rate of 2.5%, waving goodbye to its progressive tax rate structure. There are only 11 states with a flat tax rate. What does this mean for our residents? The flat tax rate provides tax relief for residents, allowing workers and small business owners to keep more of their hard-earned money. 5. Natural disaster just aren’t our thing. Sure we have our occasional dust storms and a short-lived monsoon season, but they certainly don’t wreak havoc like tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, floods and blizzards do. Have questions? Still not convinced. Reach out today and let’s discuss further the benefits of moving to the Phoenix-Metro Area.

As exciting as it is to move into a new home, not many people look forward to the actual moving day. Whether you are moving across town or across the country, moving is stressful! Here are some helpful hints from expert movers to make the big day a little more bearable. 1. Schedule your move well ahead of time: Moving companies get booked up weeks in advance, so don’t wait until the last minute to schedule your move. Make sure they know ahead of time if you have any very large or heavy items to move. The last thing you want is for the movers to show up with a truck that isn’t big enough or without enough people to move your belongings safely. 2. Consider letting the moving company pack your items: If it’s within your budget to hire packers, it may be money well spent. Packers are usually very efficient and take time to wrap fragile items securely. Packers will usually pack you the day before your move, so you don’t have to pack items away that you may need up until the day of your move. 3. Schedule services: Don’t forget to have services transferred or started at your new home. These may include: power, water, trash service, internet, TV, phone, gas, landscaping and pool services, and security system monitoring. 4. Have your new home professionally cleaned: If your seller is not arranging for cleaning to be done prior to closing, arrange to have it done before you move in so that you won’t arrive to a dirty house. It’s so refreshing to start off with a “clean slate”. 5. Pack a moving supply box: Your moving supply box should contain items you may need while you are unpacking and getting settled in your new home, such as: Toilet paper Paper towels Sponge and dish soap All-purpose cleaner Glass cleaner Shelf liner paper Scissors/Box Cutter Furniture moving pads Tape measure Cordless screwdriver Hammer Picture hanging kit Bottled water and snacks Pet food and bowls Paper plates, cups, and disposable utensils Trash bags 6. Make Your Bed: As soon as your bed frames and mattresses come off the truck, put them together or have the movers put them together, and make them up. Pack your sheets, blankets, and pillows together in well-marked boxes so you can find them easily. When you are ready to collapse at the end of moving day, you’ll be thankful the beds are made up and ready to fall into. 7. Ditto for your towels and bath soap: Pack bath towels and soap with your bed sheets so you may jump in the shower before retiring without having to search for towels. 8. Make Plans for Your pets: The last thing you need on moving day is a stressed-out pup or kitty, or worse, one that escapes in an unfamiliar neighborhood. Make plans for your pets to spend the day with family or friends, a pet sitter, or boarding facility until you are ready to introduce them to their new home. Also, it makes it safer for fido not to escape when movers are in and out. 9. Say Yes to Helpers: Sometimes it’s hard to accept extra help from family or friends if you aren’t sure what they can help with. Here are some tasks you can delegate: Lay shelf liner in the kitchen and bathroom cabinets and drawers Unpack and put away your kitchen items (you can rearrange later!) Babysit or keep your children occupied Make up your beds, place towels in the bathrooms Wipe down cabinets and counters Break down packing boxes Hang clothes in closets Organize tools and equipment in the garage Pick up lunch or dinner 10. Hire a Sitter: If you have little ones, they will be very excited about their new home, new rooms, and yard. They will want to be with you, but they will not be interested in unpacking boxes! Make plans for someone to be available just for them, so you can concentrate. A family member, friend or hired sitter can help them explore their new surroundings, build a box fort, or organize their toys in their new rooms without you worrying about where they are. 11. Hire someone to hang your art: Unless you love to hang things yourself, you might consider having a handyman scheduled to come in and hang your wall art and window treatments for you. This can save you a great deal of time getting settled. If you need help deciding where to hang art or portraits, a decorator may be a better choice than a handyman. They can help you decide on placement and hang items themselves or direct a handyman where to hang items. 12. Check out of the old house: Prior to closing, you should have submitted a change of address form with the post office. You’ll also need to remember to leave all keys and garage door or gate openers, and make sure the movers don’t pack up things like ceiling fan remote controls or other loose items that stay with the house. Don’t forget to clean out spaces like the attic, backyard sheds, crawl spaces, or any other hideaway spaces you might have stored items. It’s always nice to have the home professionally cleaned for the new owners, and, if you feel inclined, leave a list of recommended local vendors for household services.

As the scorching sun blankets the arid landscape and waves of heat shimmer in the distance, moving to the desert during the summer may seem like an unusual choice. Yet, for many people it is the most convenient time to relocate. Kids are out of school, some can use paid time-off and couple the move with a mini vacation. Embracing the desert's extreme conditions can be an opportunity for personal growth, resilience, and unparalleled natural beauty. We will explore the reasons why some individuals choose to relocate to the desert during the summer months, the challenges they may encounter, and the rewards that come with such a daring lifestyle change. Seeking Adventure and Solitude: Moving to the desert during summer appeals to those who crave adventure and the allure of uncharted territories. With vast expanses of untouched wilderness, dunes, canyons, and majestic rock formations, the desert becomes a playground for exploration. You can head to Oak Creek Canyon or Strawberry to cool off in the waterfall or at slide rock. The stark beauty and natural atmosphere offer a unique opportunity to reconnect with oneself and make memories away from the fast-paced routines of modern life. Escape from the Ordinary: For individuals seeking an escape from the mundane, moving to the desert during summer can be a transformative experience. The extreme temperatures and harsh conditions force you to adapt and become self-reliant. This change can push you out of your comfort zone, allowing personal growth, and fostering resilience in the face of adversity. It is an opportunity to challenge yourself physically and mentally, discovering inner strengths you never knew existed. The Allure of Starry Skies: One of the desert's most magical aspects is its ability to provide awe-inspiring night skies. Away from the city lights and pollution, the desert offers an unparalleled view of the cosmos. Gazing up at a sky brimming with countless stars, constellations, and even the occasional meteor shower, you will witness nature's breathtaking display, leaving you humbled and inspired. Connecting with Nature: Despite its harsh conditions, the desert boasts a vibrant ecosystem, adapted to survive and thrive in extreme environments. By moving to the desert during summer, you can witness the unique flora and fauna that call this arid region home. From cacti and succulents to desert wildlife like lizards, coyotes, and elusive desert-dwelling birds, you will develop a deeper appreciation for nature's resilience and beauty. The Beauty of Contrasts: The desert's landscape is a study in contrasts. The scorching sun and seemingly endless stretches of sand meet towering rock formations, hidden oases, and shimmering lakes. The desert reveals its stunning beauty in the interplay of light and shadow, creating dramatic landscapes that captivate the imagination. Each sunrise and sunset paints the sky with vibrant hues, making every day a visual masterpiece. Challenges and Preparations: Moving to the desert during summer is not without its challenges. The extreme heat requires careful planning and preparations to ensure safety and comfort. Here are a few considerations: a. Hydration: Staying hydrated is paramount. Always carry an ample supply of water and be mindful of the signs of dehydration. Seek shade during the hottest parts of the day and avoid strenuous activities during peak temperatures. b. Sun Protection: The desert sun can be unforgiving. Protect yourself by wearing a hat, lightweight and breathable clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen with a high SPF rating. It's crucial to shield your skin and eyes from the sun's harmful rays. c. Shelter: Providing adequate shelter from the heat is essential. Seek out air-conditioned living spaces or invest in proper insulation and cooling systems to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. d. Wildlife Awareness: Familiarize yourself with the local wildlife and take precautions to ensure your safety. Respect their habitats and keep a safe distance to avoid encounters that could pose risk.Moving to the desert during summer offers a unique opportunity to embrace extreme conditions, discover one's resilience, and immerse oneself in the breathtaking beauty of a land of contrasts. By venturing into the arid wilderness, individuals can find solace, inspiration, and a deep connection with nature. While challenges are present, with proper preparations and a sense of adventure, this daring move can lead to a life-changing experience. So, if you're ready to embark on an extraordinary journey and challenge yourself like never before, consider moving to the desert —where adventure and discovery await.

When it comes to selling a home, effective staging can make a significant difference in attracting potential buyers and securing a quick sale. However, certain staging mistakes can detract from the overall appeal of your property. In today’s blog post, we will highlight common home staging mistakes to avoid, ensuring that your space exudes a welcoming and desirable atmosphere that appeals to a wide range of buyers. Bold, Bright Paint Colors or Wall Coverings: While you may have personal preferences for vibrant hues or bold wallpaper patterns, it's essential to remember that buyers want to envision themselves in a neutral and calm environment. Avoid overwhelming or distracting colors that may clash with potential buyers' tastes. Opt for a fresh coat of neutral paint or tasteful wallpaper that enhances the space's overall aesthetic and allows buyers to envision their own style and decor. Insufficient Lighting: Ample lighting is crucial to creating an inviting atmosphere in any space. Avoid the mistake of relying solely on overhead lighting, which can create harsh shadows and an unwelcoming ambiance. Instead, incorporate a combination of table lamps, floor lamps, and even accent lighting to create layers of light. This approach adds depth, warmth, and a calm vibe, making your home feel more appealing and comfortable. Furniture that's Too Large or Small for the Space: Proper furniture sizing is crucial when staging a home. Oversized furniture can make a room feel cramped and cluttered, while undersized furniture can create an awkward layout and make the space appear smaller. Take measurements of each room and choose appropriately sized furniture that allows for easy movement and highlights the room's proportions. This will help buyers envision the full potential of the space and maximize its functionality. Pushing Furniture Against the Walls: Many homeowners mistakenly believe that pushing furniture against the walls will create a sense of openness. However, this approach can make large rooms appear empty and smaller rooms seem cluttered and cramped. Instead, arrange furniture in a way that creates conversational areas and defines different functional zones within a room. This arrangement fosters a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making the space more appealing to potential buyers. Outdated Window Coverings: Window treatments play a significant role in the overall aesthetic of a room. Avoid using outdated window coverings, such as vertical blinds, as they can instantly date the space. Instead, opt for modern and visually appealing window treatments that complement the decor and let in natural light. Simple and stylish options like sheer white curtains or classic blinds can brighten up a room, creating an inviting and updated look. Theme-Specific Decor: While personal touches can make a house feel like a home, be cautious with theme-specific decor that may limit the appeal to a specific taste or style. Items like lighthouses, country baskets and ivy may not resonate with every buyer. Instead, focus on creating a neutral and universally appealing aesthetic. Choose decor accents that enhance the space without overwhelming it, allowing buyers to envision their own personal style within the home. When staging your home for sale, it's essential to avoid common mistakes that can hinder its appeal. By steering clear of the above staging mistakes, you can create a welcoming and neutral environment that appeals to a broad range of potential buyers. Remember, the goal is to allow buyers to envision themselves living in the space, so prioritizing a clean, well-lit, and tastefully furnished home will greatly increase its marketability and potential for a swift sale.

Are you trying to unpack and the kids are running around driving you absolutely bonkers? Put yourself in the scene, dogs barking, new neighbors coming to the door with that casserole, one kids crying that they can’t find their lovey, and the other kid is racing their matchbox on the new wood floors scratching them right up. Well, if that sounds familiar to you, we have some tips to help calm the chaos to allow you time to unpack and find that lovey. Utilize Time Wisely If your children are in the stage of development where they still require a nap, take that time to focus on one room and unpack a few boxes while they sleep soundly in the next room. This will give you the ability to focus without having to refill that juice cup for the 3rd time and then having half your belongings unboxed on the left side of the room and half unboxed on the right side. Capitalize on Alone Time Going right along with utilizing time wisely, let’s talk about capitalizing on alone time. When your partner goes out to grocery shop or run a few errands, have them take the kids. This will allow the partner at home to unpack a few items. One parent going off to the gym? Take the kid to the gym daycare and let the kids make new friends, burn off energy, and the house is one step closer to being a home. Outside Toys are Your Best Friend Children that are able to play independently with minimal supervision can spend an hour or more outside. Prior to the move, pack a box that has new outside toys and label it clearly. The kids will be excited since they haven’t seen these items before. Some of these can be purchased for a minimal price at the dollar spot at Target or the dollar store. Some great ideas are a box of chalk, bubbles, a jump rope, outdoor bouncy ball, hula hoop, self-stick toss and catch glove set. All of these are fairly affordable and can entertain kids for hours. While they are outside checking out the cool new items, get those kitchen spices unpacked and put away. Enlist the Offspring No need to unpack everything alone! One way to distract kids is to recruit them to help. While you unpack larger more fragile items, have them put all the children’s books on the shelf. You can give easy jobs like wiping out the cabinets, putting the dog toys in a bin, or taking the laundry baskets to the laundry room, and hanging empty hangers in the closets. Think if it’s tedious, simple, and not fragile, your child can do it. Whether or not you want to monetarily reward them or reward them with a fun activity later or a popsicle is up to you. Relatives, Play Groups, Friends Oh My! One way to have a significant time block to unpack is to have the help of relatives, friends, and the new play group. Think about having someone else watch the children for the day to allow for you and your partner to set up your home. Prior to relocating, join a local play group or Mom’s group and discuss this idea with them. You will be surprised how many volunteers you’ll have to take your kids to the park. Looking for more moving and unpacking tips? Stay tuned, we’ll be having more articles for you.