Support the No New Home Tax Ballot Measure 
Monday, April 21, 2008, 2:08 PM - General Real Estate
I am supporting a critical initiative in Arizona to bring a new measure to the November 2008 ballot, and I am asking for your support as well. The initiative is the No New Home Tax Ballot Measure.

This ballot measure would prevent State and/or local goverment from imposing real estate transfer taxes. Real estate transfer taxes would make property ownership in Arizona out of reach for many people. Arizona's ability to provide affordable housing, create small business ownership opportunities and help seniors and low-income residents keep their homes must be protected.

Real estate transfer taxes create double taxation, weakening the economy by making it harder for owners to sell their property and reducing the equity property owners have worked hard to build.

What is a Real Estate Transfer Tax?

A real estate transfer tax is a state and/or local tax or fee imposed on real property that is typically assessed according to the sales price of real estate property when transferred. Typically, once the tax is initiated, the rate can be increased by the state, county or city to meet future legislative enactments. Transfer taxes in other states range from .001% to 2.2%.

Problems with a Transfer Tax:

Creates Double Taxation. Governments already collect taxes on your property based on the property's value. This new tax would unfairly impose a second tax to impact your home or property.

Damages Equity. Since the tax is assessed against the total value including the amount you owe on your mortgage(s), the overall equity earned by the seller is decreased.

Burdens the Real Estate Market Further. In an already burdened housing market where people are struggling to sell their homes, the overall higher costs will only make it more difficult to initiate a successful sale, not to mention making it less attractive for commercial real estate to recruit business to the area.

Punishes Home Owners. People who move from one house to another should not be punished while others choose not to move; in fact, this is considered discriminatory and harms access to the "American Dream" of home ownership.

Impacts Lower Incomes Most. A real estate transfer tax would impose a higher tax burden on lower income households that typically spend a larger percentage of their income on their home.
Don't let the government strip you of your hard earned home equity. Support the No New Home Tax Initiative and prohibit the the double taxation of real estate in the State of Arizona.

Visit www.nonewtaxonourhomes.com for more information.

REALTORS® learn more at www.rallinow.com.
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Community Highlight - Fountain Hills, Arizona 85268 
Thursday, April 03, 2008, 11:12 AM - General Real Estate, Fountain Hills Real Estate
Fountain Hills is a small hillside community located on the outskirts of the valley, just east of Scottsdale, Arizona. The town is named for its centerpiece, one of the world's tallest fountains. Each year, the town hosts several major local events, including the Fountain Hills Great Fair. Visitors come from all over the world to enjoy the wonderful benefits this unique town has to offer.

Housing
Housing in Fountain Hills tends to be more spaced out than in surrounding Arizona communities, with a nice mix of single family and multi-family residential properties. There is also an adequate amount of commercial real estate space to accommodate a thriving community. The majority of the houses in Fountain Hills are custom homes that have been architecturally designed to fit into the landscape of this hillside community. Many of the homes enjoy dramatic views of the World Famous Fountain Hills Fountain and surrounding mountain ranges including Four Peaks, the Superstitions, the Mazatzals, the McDowells and Red Mountain. The small town atmosphere and friendly nature of the residents create a welcoming environment for visitors and new residents, making Fountain Hills a great relocation spot.

Schools
The Fountain Hills Unified School District has earned a reputation for excellent academic programs, noteworthy student achievement, and high levels of parent and community involvement. The district consists of four schools, McDowell Mountain Elementary School (Pre-K - 2), Four Peaks Elementary School (3-5), Fountain Hills Middle School (6-8), and Fountain Hills High School (9-12). Parents who prefer a self-directed approach to learning may also enjoy the Montessori environment of the Fountain Hills Charter School (K - 8).

Community Activities
On a typical morning, you will find many residents out for a walk or jog around the fountain, playing a round of golf, or visiting at one of the local coffee shops. A variety of programs offered through Parks & Recreation, local clubs, and the community center keep residents busy and involved in the community. Children and adults alike can enjoy numerous sporting activities, cultural events, and outdoor activities. The town's dog park offers a place to get to know your neighbors while your four legged friends play outdoors off leash. Another popular activity is the disc golf (Frisbee golf or frolf) course around the Fountain. You will also find fantastic hiking programs, mountain biking and rock climbing in neighboring McDowell Mountain Park.

Fountain Hills, Arizona was recently named
#1 in Phoenix Magazine's annual "Best Places to Live" in the Valley.


Fountain Hills Relocation Guide

Fountain Hills Homes For Sale

Contact me to have new home listings in Fountain Hills sent directly to your email.

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Quick Tips to Keep Your Credit in Check 
Thursday, April 03, 2008, 11:07 AM - General Real Estate, Real Estate Investment
Did you know that you are entitled to a free credit report once every 12 months from each of the nationwide consumer credit reporting companies: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion?

Monitoring and reviewing your credit report regularly can help guard against identity theft and avoid errors that could making buying your next home challenging.

You can order your free credit report by visiting www.annualcreditreport.com. This is a website that is sponsored by the three major credit reporting companies to allow you easy access to your free annual credit reports. You may also request your free credit report by phone by calling 1-877-322-8228, or by mail by sending a completed request form to:

Annual Credit Report Request Service
P.O. Box 105281
Atlanta, GA 30348-5281


You may order your credit reports from each of the three credit reporting companies at one time, or space them out throughout the year to allow for periodic monitoring.

If you find errors or discrepancies on your credit report, you should report them in writing directly to the credit reporting company and include any documentation you may have to support your position. The credit reporting company with then investigate the dispute (usually within 30 days) and send you written notice of their findings along with an updated copy of your credit report for your review.

For more information regarding consumer credit reporting, and samples of dispute letters visit the Federal Trade Commission website.

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Price Reduced - 3bd/2ba in Fountain Hills 
Monday, August 13, 2007, 4:54 PM - Fountain Hills Real Estate
Exciting news for buyers! I have another $10,000 PRICE REDUCTION on my listing at 11044 N Pinto Dr in Fountain Hills.This house is priced below appraisal, vacant and move-in ready! The home has 1865 sq. ft. with 3 BD/2 BA and a 2 car garage.



Energy efficient block construction helps keep this home cool in the summer without breaking the bank.

The hillside lot offers FANTASTIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS!



Sip your morning coffee on the balcony with spectacular sunrises over Four Peaks. And, enjoy picturesque views of Red Mountain from the back yard.



There is a built-in BBQ and professionally matted sports court in the back yard. Plenty of room to play basketball, tennis and much more.



This home has been updated with new carpet, paint, ceiling fans, light fixtures, granite counter tops, designer hardware and more!



Come see why Fountain Hills was named #1 Place to Live in the Valley!

Click here for more details and to take a virtual tour of this home!

Contact me[/url for more information or to schedule a showing.
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Fountain Hills Luxury Home Tour  
Monday, August 13, 2007, 2:48 PM - Fountain Hills Real Estate
Fountain Hills Luxury Home Tour - Wednesday, August 15, 2007

Are you looking for a luxury home in the Fountain Hills area? Join me for a monthly luxury home tour.

Take a tour of luxury homes listed for sale in Fountain Hills, Arizona. This monthly luxury home tour visits several luxury homes currently listed for sale in Fountain Hills, Arizona each month. We meet in the morning at a central location. From there you will be transported from home to home by motor coach. Lunch is provided immediately following the tour.

The next tour is Wednesday, August 15, 2007.

For more information or to register for this luxury home tour please contact me.

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