Property Taxes Understanding Your Bill

Savory Seafood Phantom Horse Grill’s Pan-Seared Salmon

Desert Highlands’Hot Real Estate Listings

Interior DesignIts Subconscious

Emotional Impact

February 2009

Produced by Desert Lifestyle Publishing • 480.460.0996

Mortgage FinancingWhat You Need to Know in 2009

An article from MSNBC reports that now is the time to get a great deal on a 30-year, fixed-rate, conforming loan. Lenders have great rates right now if you have a good FICO score, a manageable debt burden and proof of reliable income. 30-year mortgage rates haven’t been this low since 1961! The boom of ARM loans from the past decade is over. Never mind about the advantages of fixed- vs. adjustable-rate mortgage loans. Today, your best rates and options are in the 30-year fixed programs because that’s the segment of the mortgage industry that the Federal government has pledged to back with support. Because banks don’t really want to lend with ARMs right now, they purposefully aren’t offering very attractive rates on them. Lenders are all over the map in terms of how much risk they are willing to take on - therefore it’s prudent to shop around. Potential borrowers should check their finances. A FICO score of at least 720 is needed to get the best rates. However, for a big enough fee, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will guarantee loans with FICO scores as low as the mid-600s. A 20% down payment may also be needed. Debt-to-income ratios also need to be considered. Give me a call. Let’s talk finances and let’s get you pre-approved for a loan before we

start shopping for properties. I have several excellent lender referrals

or we can work together with the lender of your choice.

Joanne Bradley

Bradley Private Brokerage/ Realty Executives

1-800-727-1247

480-488-4224

Ranked Top 4 Realtor by Ranking AZ 2007

Member of Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate

Member of FIABCI (International Immobilier)

jbgolfhome@aol.com

www.bradleygolfproperties.com

ISSN-1939-943X

If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.

Statistics gathered from MLS and do not reflect private sales. All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

JOANNE BRADLEY’S CURRENT LISTINGS IN

Contemporary Santa Fe HomeThe light and open floor plan, floor-to-ceiling windows, light maple wood floors, alder wood cabinetry and doors, gorgeous center island kitchen/family room combination, three-car garage with plenty of storage, landscaped back yard, pool with separate spa, and north mountain views all add up to one stunning home. Golf, tennis, fitness facilities and great dining are all nearby to enjoy.

Lot #282 • 4 Bed / 4 Bath / 3700 Sq. Ft. • $1,200,000

Beautifully Remodeled Southwest ContemporaryThis very special home is perfect for the buyer who wants a smaller-scale home but with an acre plus lot for privacy. If you’d like to expand, there is room for a guest house and Ramada. You will LOVE the kitchen. With great views from the picture windows, the kitchen offers the latest in appliances, new cabinets and updated flooring. City lights and mountain views are yours on this north/south exposure homesite.

Lot #398 • 3 Bed / 3 Bath / 3150 Sq. Ft. • $1,295,000

Magnificent views of Pinnacle Peak, Troon Mountain and McDowell Mountains This lovely home offers amazing views from the foyer as well as every other room in the home. Wide panels of glass and floor-to-ceiling commercial windows throughout the home maximize the views. The office has custom built-in shelves and a roomy closet. The kitchen and family room also are perfect for entertaining. The breakfast area offers curved walls and views of Pinnacle Peak.

Lot #634 • 3 Bed / 3.5 Bath / 3457 Sq. Ft. • $1,395,000

Beautiful Architectural DesignThis soft contemporary home offers the most beautiful architectural designs throughout the home. The exterior has drop-dead features that draw you to this exclusive executive retreat. Copper features on the roof line and mood-enhancing angles dramatically accent the contemporary feel of this property. The interior courtyard offers a resort-like setting for outside dining. An entertainer’s delight, this home is sure to impress!

Lot #923 • 4 Bed / 4.5 Bath / 4667 Sq. Ft. • $2,100,000

Bob Bacon Designed ShowcaseThe stone-faced exterior and copper roofing with half-moon shaped design draws in the beauty of the surrounding desert. Designed to luxuriate your guests, this property includes a 40 x 50 indoor pool with tropical plants, built-in TV, sound system, outdoor Olympic-sized pool with solar, wonderful Estancia rooms, an outdoor kitchen, separate guest house offering two bedrooms with a fireplace and kitchen.

Lot #5 • 4 Bed / 7 Bath / 11,500 Sq. Ft. • $5,995,000

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Glendale Chocolate Affair Downtown Glendale, Feb. 1st - 2nd623.930.2000 or glendaleaz.comThis delicious event is perfect for families, couples and of course, all you chocoholics. With over 40 purveyors featuring delectable choices such as chocolate covered waffles, chocolate egg rolls and goat-milk fudge; you won’t know where to begin! Arizona’s famous candy factory, Cerreta’s, is sponsoring this unique event and offering tours of their factory all weekend long.

SMoCA’s 10th Anniversary CelebrationScottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, Feb. 13th - 15th480.874.4666 or smoca.orgCelebrate the 10 years that SMoCA has been a part of our community. The weekend begins with the unveiling of two special exhibits, Seriously Funny and At the Crossroads of American Photography. Saturday, SMoCA is celebrating in style with a benefit dinner and after-party. To end the weekend with a bang, bring the family out for a Sunday Birthday Party at the Scottsdale Civic Center.

CavaliaLoop 101 and Scottsdale Road, Feb. 14th - 22nd866.999.8111 or cavalia.netMagical. Brilliant. Breathtaking. These truly are the only words to describe this unique performance. Cavalia explores the magical bond and history between humans and horse. Presented under the largest touring big top in North America, the show uses large panoramic projections, visual effects, music and dance in a dream-like virtual setting. Over seventy magnificent horses and performers work together to create a performance like nothing you have seen before!

Phoenix Suns vs. LA Clippers US Airways Center, Feb. 17th602.379.SUNS or nba.com/sunsCheer on Nash, Stoudemire and the rest of the Suns as they battle it out with the LA Clippers. The Suns have been a part of the Valley for 40 years now and still are going strong with many all star players. Along with all the excitement from the game, the Phoenix Suns Gorilla and the Suns Dancers are there for non-stop entertainment!

Galaxy Gala 2009Arizona Biltmore Ballroom, Feb. 21st602.716.2014 or azscience.orgMotown is alive and kickin’ at this annual gala to benefit the Arizona Science Center and its many wonderful community programs. This lively evening includes cocktails, dinner and a whole lot of dancing!

American Heart WalkTempe Beach Park, Feb. 28th602.414.5320 or phoenixheartwalk.orgThe American Heart Association is the largest voluntary organization working to prevent heart-related diseases. This great walk is not only a fantastic way to keep your heart healthy, but all participants are greatly encouraged to raise funds. There are many fantastic prizes for those who raise as little as $100.

FEBRUARY 2009

Most homeowners would agree – the joys of owning a home outweigh the headaches. However there are always responsibilities, such as property taxes, that can seem a lot less daunting when better understood. In Maricopa County, Keith Russell is the property tax assessor. He levies the county tax on the first Monday of the New Year. Property taxes are levied annually, but broken into two payments that are due twice a year by homeowners. (Although a homeowner can chose to pay for the entire year in one payment.) Property tax periods are January 1st - June 30th and July 31st - December 31st. Homeowners do not have to pay their bill for the first period until Oct 1st of that year, and for the second period, by March 1st of the following year. If the bill is unpaid by November 1st for the first period or May 1st the following year for the second period, there will be a 16% interest penalty per annum assessed until the balance is paid. The county is also the primary lien holder of your property, and can lien your property if property taxes go unpaid. As you can imagine, homeowners that do not pay their property taxes are often subject to losing their home to foreclosure. While some homeowners choose to pay their property

tax bill on their own, a property tax bill is often wrapped into a homeowner’s mortgage payment, in which case the homeowner indirectly pays the tax a little bit each month. This depends entirely on the specific mortgage note and sometimes it’s a requirement that the tax be wrapped up along with the mortgage payment. “There are 1.6 million properties in Maricopa County”, reports County Treasurer Charles Hoskins, and although all are sent a bill or notice that the mortgage company has paid the bill, 100,000 -150,000 tax notices are returned due to an error in the address. “This year,” Hoskins says, “we started advertising: ‘If you own property, you owe taxes, whether you get a tax bill or not.’” A homeowner’s property value is assessed in two different ways: 1.) Limited Property Value is a legislatively established value based on a budget formula for the maintenance and operation of state, cities, school districts and community colleges. 2.) Full Cash Value is the assessor’s estimate of true market value; taxes used to fund bonds, overrides and certain districts. The assessed value of each property is determined using percentages set by the state legislature. The assessed value divided by 100, multiplied by the tax rate (set in August of each year) determines property taxes billed in September. If a homeowner disagrees with the assessed amount, they can appeal the classification of their property or the assessed valuation, but not the tax itself. It may be confusing to some homeowners why their bill differs from a similar home in the same neighborhood, but assessment is based on many factors including livable square footage,

lot size and components. Although properties might look alike on the surface there may be subtle differences. Homeowners can appeal through the assessor’s office, county board of equalization, state tax appeal board and state superior court. Or, begin the appeals process by visiting www.maricopa.gov/assessor to download the necessary forms. Phone numbers for other questions are also printed on your property tax bill.

PAN-SEARED SALMON WITH ORANGE-SCENTED LOBSTER NAGE

Featuring Phantom Horse Grillat the Arizona Grand Resort

8000 S. Arizona Grand Pkwy. • Phoenix602.438.9000 or arizonagrandresort.com

Just as the outdoors and weather can greatly affect our mood, indoor spaces also have an impact on our emotions, which is why we put so much effort into creating rooms that “feel right” for us. And whether we decorate our living spaces ourselves or work with an interior designer, what is often learned is that the art of interior design is far more complex than meets the eye. Yes, the selection and careful placement of furniture and decorative items are crucial; but the use of complementing or contrasting fabrics, textures, materials, finishes, color and lighting also come into play. These distinctive elements should all work together to not only create a room with functionality, but one that draws us in emotionally. A myriad of studies have been done researching the effect of our living spaces on our psyche. Environmental psychology studies have shown that what makes us feel comfortable and happy in our homes may be connected to survival instincts that we’ve carried within our DNA since the beginning of man. “The effectiveness and impact of interior spaces,” says Tony Sutton, designer and owner of Est, Est, Inc. in Scottsdale (who also designed the room in the accompanying photo and on the cover), “is determined by the physiological influence of the various finish materials and textures within a space. This is most effective when it has a subconscious impact

rather than a directly conscious one.” Psychological experiments suggest that humans possess strong prefer-ences for mystery, the subtle promise of a new sight lying just around the corner. Sutton also says unexpected solutions can cause you to experi-ence the full volume of the space, and unique details such as ceiling designs and ambient lighting can balance the room as well as the psyche. “As you enter a room,” Sutton explains, “you are emotionally affected by the architectural details and interior design elements. These can dictate whether the room is formal or casual, active or peaceful, warm or cool.” One’s mood is also greatly influenced by color, rough or smooth textures, the matching or mixing of patterns and solids and polished or dull finishes. Silky or plush fabrics in rich colors and intricate patterns can give an elegant and romantic feel, whereas rougher textures convey a casualness and earthiness. Color and lighting are both key to setting the stage and creating a mood. In fact, there’s a whole psychology regarding how color and lighting affect us – energizing or relaxing us and evoking a whole range of emotions. Accent hues are often used against a neutral base to create interest and give a pop of uplifting color. For the room in these photographs, Sutton chose an earthy, friendly palette of burgundy reds, golden

yellow and browns in the leather that incorporate solids and patterns of a different scale to make the room more of a family gathering place. “This room,” he says, “is definitely inviting. It beckons you to come in, sit down and relax.” The unusual form of the truss designs on the ceiling plays off the symmetry of the fireplace location and the sunken bar area allows for comfortable club chair seating within the room. Sutton’s use of walnut wood floors and area rugs add warmth, and the light patina finish on the game table balances the color of the chenille fabric on the leather chairs and the dining chairs on the far side. Custom lounge chairs with a custom nail head design add a touch of uniqueness. Sutton’s aim when he used beeswax Venetian plaster on the walls was to add texture and interest to a normally neutral background. He also created a hand-plaster detail above the hood in the kitchen, which gives softness to the work area. “When an interior space has an effective balance of elements,” Sutton explains, “whether you consciously recognize it or not, you are subconsciously being told how to react emotionally and functionally in that space. Living rooms can be made more livable, dining spaces are used more frequently and family rooms become multi- functional.”

Ingredients:4 each, 6 oz. salmon fillets12 each, Manila clams12 each, PEI mussels6 assorted baby heirloom tomatoes, cut in half1 cup Israeli cous cous1 pinch saffron2 cups lobster stock1 orange, sliced1 lemon, sliced1 bulb fennel6 cloves garlic, roughly chopped1 stick cinnamon2 pieces star anise2 shallots, roughly chopped1/4 cup pernod

Procedure:Combine the last nine ingredients together and simmer over low heat until reduced to one cup. Strain and set aside. Toast the cous cous and saffron together over medium-high heat. Add the clams, mussels, tomatoes and then the reduced stock. Cover and simmer until the clams and mussels open. Over medium-high heat, sear the salmon on both sides and cook until desired doneness (about 3 minutes per side). Spoon the cous cous and shellfish into a large bowl and then top with salmon fillet. Serve warm and enjoy.

Serves: 4

UNDERSTANDING AND PREPARING FOR

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.

Glendale Chocolate Affair Downtown Glendale, Feb. 1st - 2nd623.930.2000 or glendaleaz.comThis delicious event is perfect for families, couples and of course, all you chocoholics. With over 40 purveyors featuring delectable choices such as chocolate covered waffles, chocolate egg rolls and goat-milk fudge; you won’t know where to begin! Arizona’s famous candy factory, Cerreta’s, is sponsoring this unique event and offering tours of their factory all weekend long.

SMoCA’s 10th Anniversary CelebrationScottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, Feb. 13th - 15th480.874.4666 or smoca.orgCelebrate the 10 years that SMoCA has been a part of our community. The weekend begins with the unveiling of two special exhibits, Seriously Funny and At the Crossroads of American Photography. Saturday, SMoCA is celebrating in style with a benefit dinner and after-party. To end the weekend with a bang, bring the family out for a Sunday Birthday Party at the Scottsdale Civic Center.

CavaliaLoop 101 and Scottsdale Road, Feb. 14th - 22nd866.999.8111 or cavalia.netMagical. Brilliant. Breathtaking. These truly are the only words to describe this unique performance. Cavalia explores the magical bond and history between humans and horse. Presented under the largest touring big top in North America, the show uses large panoramic projections, visual effects, music and dance in a dream-like virtual setting. Over seventy magnificent horses and performers work together to create a performance like nothing you have seen before!

Phoenix Suns vs. LA Clippers US Airways Center, Feb. 17th602.379.SUNS or nba.com/sunsCheer on Nash, Stoudemire and the rest of the Suns as they battle it out with the LA Clippers. The Suns have been a part of the Valley for 40 years now and still are going strong with many all star players. Along with all the excitement from the game, the Phoenix Suns Gorilla and the Suns Dancers are there for non-stop entertainment!

Galaxy Gala 2009Arizona Biltmore Ballroom, Feb. 21st602.716.2014 or azscience.orgMotown is alive and kickin’ at this annual gala to benefit the Arizona Science Center and its many wonderful community programs. This lively evening includes cocktails, dinner and a whole lot of dancing!

American Heart WalkTempe Beach Park, Feb. 28th602.414.5320 or phoenixheartwalk.orgThe American Heart Association is the largest voluntary organization working to prevent heart-related diseases. This great walk is not only a fantastic way to keep your heart healthy, but all participants are greatly encouraged to raise funds. There are many fantastic prizes for those who raise as little as $100.

FEBRUARY 2009

Most homeowners would agree – the joys of owning a home outweigh the headaches. However there are always responsibilities, such as property taxes, that can seem a lot less daunting when better understood. In Maricopa County, Keith Russell is the property tax assessor. He levies the county tax on the first Monday of the New Year. Property taxes are levied annually, but broken into two payments that are due twice a year by homeowners. (Although a homeowner can chose to pay for the entire year in one payment.) Property tax periods are January 1st - June 30th and July 31st - December 31st. Homeowners do not have to pay their bill for the first period until Oct 1st of that year, and for the second period, by March 1st of the following year. If the bill is unpaid by November 1st for the first period or May 1st the following year for the second period, there will be a 16% interest penalty per annum assessed until the balance is paid. The county is also the primary lien holder of your property, and can lien your property if property taxes go unpaid. As you can imagine, homeowners that do not pay their property taxes are often subject to losing their home to foreclosure. While some homeowners choose to pay their property

tax bill on their own, a property tax bill is often wrapped into a homeowner’s mortgage payment, in which case the homeowner indirectly pays the tax a little bit each month. This depends entirely on the specific mortgage note and sometimes it’s a requirement that the tax be wrapped up along with the mortgage payment. “There are 1.6 million properties in Maricopa County”, reports County Treasurer Charles Hoskins, and although all are sent a bill or notice that the mortgage company has paid the bill, 100,000 -150,000 tax notices are returned due to an error in the address. “This year,” Hoskins says, “we started advertising: ‘If you own property, you owe taxes, whether you get a tax bill or not.’” A homeowner’s property value is assessed in two different ways: 1.) Limited Property Value is a legislatively established value based on a budget formula for the maintenance and operation of state, cities, school districts and community colleges. 2.) Full Cash Value is the assessor’s estimate of true market value; taxes used to fund bonds, overrides and certain districts. The assessed value of each property is determined using percentages set by the state legislature. The assessed value divided by 100, multiplied by the tax rate (set in August of each year) determines property taxes billed in September. If a homeowner disagrees with the assessed amount, they can appeal the classification of their property or the assessed valuation, but not the tax itself. It may be confusing to some homeowners why their bill differs from a similar home in the same neighborhood, but assessment is based on many factors including livable square footage,

lot size and components. Although properties might look alike on the surface there may be subtle differences. Homeowners can appeal through the assessor’s office, county board of equalization, state tax appeal board and state superior court. Or, begin the appeals process by visiting www.maricopa.gov/assessor to download the necessary forms. Phone numbers for other questions are also printed on your property tax bill.

PAN-SEARED SALMON WITH ORANGE-SCENTED LOBSTER NAGE

Featuring Phantom Horse Grillat the Arizona Grand Resort

8000 S. Arizona Grand Pkwy. • Phoenix602.438.9000 or arizonagrandresort.com

Just as the outdoors and weather can greatly affect our mood, indoor spaces also have an impact on our emotions, which is why we put so much effort into creating rooms that “feel right” for us. And whether we decorate our living spaces ourselves or work with an interior designer, what is often learned is that the art of interior design is far more complex than meets the eye. Yes, the selection and careful placement of furniture and decorative items are crucial; but the use of complementing or contrasting fabrics, textures, materials, finishes, color and lighting also come into play. These distinctive elements should all work together to not only create a room with functionality, but one that draws us in emotionally. A myriad of studies have been done researching the effect of our living spaces on our psyche. Environmental psychology studies have shown that what makes us feel comfortable and happy in our homes may be connected to survival instincts that we’ve carried within our DNA since the beginning of man. “The effectiveness and impact of interior spaces,” says Tony Sutton, designer and owner of Est, Est, Inc. in Scottsdale (who also designed the room in the accompanying photo and on the cover), “is determined by the physiological influence of the various finish materials and textures within a space. This is most effective when it has a subconscious impact

rather than a directly conscious one.” Psychological experiments suggest that humans possess strong prefer-ences for mystery, the subtle promise of a new sight lying just around the corner. Sutton also says unexpected solutions can cause you to experi-ence the full volume of the space, and unique details such as ceiling designs and ambient lighting can balance the room as well as the psyche. “As you enter a room,” Sutton explains, “you are emotionally affected by the architectural details and interior design elements. These can dictate whether the room is formal or casual, active or peaceful, warm or cool.” One’s mood is also greatly influenced by color, rough or smooth textures, the matching or mixing of patterns and solids and polished or dull finishes. Silky or plush fabrics in rich colors and intricate patterns can give an elegant and romantic feel, whereas rougher textures convey a casualness and earthiness. Color and lighting are both key to setting the stage and creating a mood. In fact, there’s a whole psychology regarding how color and lighting affect us – energizing or relaxing us and evoking a whole range of emotions. Accent hues are often used against a neutral base to create interest and give a pop of uplifting color. For the room in these photographs, Sutton chose an earthy, friendly palette of burgundy reds, golden

yellow and browns in the leather that incorporate solids and patterns of a different scale to make the room more of a family gathering place. “This room,” he says, “is definitely inviting. It beckons you to come in, sit down and relax.” The unusual form of the truss designs on the ceiling plays off the symmetry of the fireplace location and the sunken bar area allows for comfortable club chair seating within the room. Sutton’s use of walnut wood floors and area rugs add warmth, and the light patina finish on the game table balances the color of the chenille fabric on the leather chairs and the dining chairs on the far side. Custom lounge chairs with a custom nail head design add a touch of uniqueness. Sutton’s aim when he used beeswax Venetian plaster on the walls was to add texture and interest to a normally neutral background. He also created a hand-plaster detail above the hood in the kitchen, which gives softness to the work area. “When an interior space has an effective balance of elements,” Sutton explains, “whether you consciously recognize it or not, you are subconsciously being told how to react emotionally and functionally in that space. Living rooms can be made more livable, dining spaces are used more frequently and family rooms become multi- functional.”

Ingredients:4 each, 6 oz. salmon fillets12 each, Manila clams12 each, PEI mussels6 assorted baby heirloom tomatoes, cut in half1 cup Israeli cous cous1 pinch saffron2 cups lobster stock1 orange, sliced1 lemon, sliced1 bulb fennel6 cloves garlic, roughly chopped1 stick cinnamon2 pieces star anise2 shallots, roughly chopped1/4 cup pernod

Procedure:Combine the last nine ingredients together and simmer over low heat until reduced to one cup. Strain and set aside. Toast the cous cous and saffron together over medium-high heat. Add the clams, mussels, tomatoes and then the reduced stock. Cover and simmer until the clams and mussels open. Over medium-high heat, sear the salmon on both sides and cook until desired doneness (about 3 minutes per side). Spoon the cous cous and shellfish into a large bowl and then top with salmon fillet. Serve warm and enjoy.

Serves: 4

UNDERSTANDING AND PREPARING FOR

Ima

ge

Co

urt

esy

of E

st, E

st, I

nc

.

Property Taxes Understanding Your Bill

Savory Seafood Phantom Horse Grill’s Pan-Seared Salmon

Desert Highlands’Hot Real Estate Listings

Interior DesignIts Subconscious

Emotional Impact

February 2009

Produced by Desert Lifestyle Publishing • 480.460.0996

Mortgage FinancingWhat You Need to Know in 2009

An article from MSNBC reports that now is the time to get a great deal on a 30-year, fixed-rate, conforming loan. Lenders have great rates right now if you have a good FICO score, a manageable debt burden and proof of reliable income. 30-year mortgage rates haven’t been this low since 1961! The boom of ARM loans from the past decade is over. Never mind about the advantages of fixed- vs. adjustable-rate mortgage loans. Today, your best rates and options are in the 30-year fixed programs because that’s the segment of the mortgage industry that the Federal government has pledged to back with support. Because banks don’t really want to lend with ARMs right now, they purposefully aren’t offering very attractive rates on them. Lenders are all over the map in terms of how much risk they are willing to take on - therefore it’s prudent to shop around. Potential borrowers should check their finances. A FICO score of at least 720 is needed to get the best rates. However, for a big enough fee, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will guarantee loans with FICO scores as low as the mid-600s. A 20% down payment may also be needed. Debt-to-income ratios also need to be considered. Give me a call. Let’s talk finances and let’s get you pre-approved for a loan before we

start shopping for properties. I have several excellent lender referrals

or we can work together with the lender of your choice.

Joanne Bradley

Bradley Private Brokerage/ Realty Executives

1-800-727-1247

480-488-4224

Ranked Top 4 Realtor by Ranking AZ 2007

Member of Who’s Who in Luxury Real Estate

Member of FIABCI (International Immobilier)

jbgolfhome@aol.com

www.bradleygolfproperties.com

ISSN-1939-943X

If your home is currently listed, this is not a solicitation for that listing.

Statistics gathered from MLS and do not reflect private sales. All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed.

JOANNE BRADLEY’S CURRENT LISTINGS IN

Contemporary Santa Fe HomeThe light and open floor plan, floor-to-ceiling windows, light maple wood floors, alder wood cabinetry and doors, gorgeous center island kitchen/family room combination, three-car garage with plenty of storage, landscaped back yard, pool with separate spa, and north mountain views all add up to one stunning home. Golf, tennis, fitness facilities and great dining are all nearby to enjoy.

Lot #282 • 4 Bed / 4 Bath / 3700 Sq. Ft. • $1,200,000

Beautifully Remodeled Southwest ContemporaryThis very special home is perfect for the buyer who wants a smaller-scale home but with an acre plus lot for privacy. If you’d like to expand, there is room for a guest house and Ramada. You will LOVE the kitchen. With great views from the picture windows, the kitchen offers the latest in appliances, new cabinets and updated flooring. City lights and mountain views are yours on this north/south exposure homesite.

Lot #398 • 3 Bed / 3 Bath / 3150 Sq. Ft. • $1,295,000

Magnificent views of Pinnacle Peak, Troon Mountain and McDowell Mountains This lovely home offers amazing views from the foyer as well as every other room in the home. Wide panels of glass and floor-to-ceiling commercial windows throughout the home maximize the views. The office has custom built-in shelves and a roomy closet. The kitchen and family room also are perfect for entertaining. The breakfast area offers curved walls and views of Pinnacle Peak.

Lot #634 • 3 Bed / 3.5 Bath / 3457 Sq. Ft. • $1,395,000

Beautiful Architectural DesignThis soft contemporary home offers the most beautiful architectural designs throughout the home. The exterior has drop-dead features that draw you to this exclusive executive retreat. Copper features on the roof line and mood-enhancing angles dramatically accent the contemporary feel of this property. The interior courtyard offers a resort-like setting for outside dining. An entertainer’s delight, this home is sure to impress!

Lot #923 • 4 Bed / 4.5 Bath / 4667 Sq. Ft. • $2,100,000

Bob Bacon Designed ShowcaseThe stone-faced exterior and copper roofing with half-moon shaped design draws in the beauty of the surrounding desert. Designed to luxuriate your guests, this property includes a 40 x 50 indoor pool with tropical plants, built-in TV, sound system, outdoor Olympic-sized pool with solar, wonderful Estancia rooms, an outdoor kitchen, separate guest house offering two bedrooms with a fireplace and kitchen.

Lot #5 • 4 Bed / 7 Bath / 11,500 Sq. Ft. • $5,995,000

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Glendale Chocolate Affair Downtown Glendale, Feb. 1st - 2nd623.930.2000 or glendaleaz.comThis delicious event is perfect for families, couples and of course, all you chocoholics. With over 40 purveyors featuring delectable choices such as chocolate covered waffles, chocolate egg rolls and goat-milk fudge; you won’t know where to begin! Arizona’s famous candy factory, Cerreta’s, is sponsoring this unique event and offering tours of their factory all weekend long.

SMoCA’s 10th Anniversary CelebrationScottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, Feb. 13th - 15th480.874.4666 or smoca.orgCelebrate the 10 years that SMoCA has been a part of our community. The weekend begins with the unveiling of two special exhibits, Seriously Funny and At the Crossroads of American Photography. Saturday, SMoCA is celebrating in style with a benefit dinner and after-party. To end the weekend with a bang, bring the family out for a Sunday Birthday Party at the Scottsdale Civic Center.

CavaliaLoop 101 and Scottsdale Road, Feb. 14th - 22nd866.999.8111 or cavalia.netMagical. Brilliant. Breathtaking. These truly are the only words to describe this unique performance. Cavalia explores the magical bond and history between humans and horse. Presented under the largest touring big top in North America, the show uses large panoramic projections, visual effects, music and dance in a dream-like virtual setting. Over seventy magnificent horses and performers work together to create a performance like nothing you have seen before!

Phoenix Suns vs. LA Clippers US Airways Center, Feb. 17th602.379.SUNS or nba.com/sunsCheer on Nash, Stoudemire and the rest of the Suns as they battle it out with the LA Clippers. The Suns have been a part of the Valley for 40 years now and still are going strong with many all star players. Along with all the excitement from the game, the Phoenix Suns Gorilla and the Suns Dancers are there for non-stop entertainment!

Galaxy Gala 2009Arizona Biltmore Ballroom, Feb. 21st602.716.2014 or azscience.orgMotown is alive and kickin’ at this annual gala to benefit the Arizona Science Center and its many wonderful community programs. This lively evening includes cocktails, dinner and a whole lot of dancing!

American Heart WalkTempe Beach Park, Feb. 28th602.414.5320 or phoenixheartwalk.orgThe American Heart Association is the largest voluntary organization working to prevent heart-related diseases. This great walk is not only a fantastic way to keep your heart healthy, but all participants are greatly encouraged to raise funds. There are many fantastic prizes for those who raise as little as $100.

FEBRUARY 2009

Most homeowners would agree – the joys of owning a home outweigh the headaches. However there are always responsibilities, such as property taxes, that can seem a lot less daunting when better understood. In Maricopa County, Keith Russell is the property tax assessor. He levies the county tax on the first Monday of the New Year. Property taxes are levied annually, but broken into two payments that are due twice a year by homeowners. (Although a homeowner can chose to pay for the entire year in one payment.) Property tax periods are January 1st - June 30th and July 31st - December 31st. Homeowners do not have to pay their bill for the first period until Oct 1st of that year, and for the second period, by March 1st of the following year. If the bill is unpaid by November 1st for the first period or May 1st the following year for the second period, there will be a 16% interest penalty per annum assessed until the balance is paid. The county is also the primary lien holder of your property, and can lien your property if property taxes go unpaid. As you can imagine, homeowners that do not pay their property taxes are often subject to losing their home to foreclosure. While some homeowners choose to pay their property

tax bill on their own, a property tax bill is often wrapped into a homeowner’s mortgage payment, in which case the homeowner indirectly pays the tax a little bit each month. This depends entirely on the specific mortgage note and sometimes it’s a requirement that the tax be wrapped up along with the mortgage payment. “There are 1.6 million properties in Maricopa County”, reports County Treasurer Charles Hoskins, and although all are sent a bill or notice that the mortgage company has paid the bill, 100,000 -150,000 tax notices are returned due to an error in the address. “This year,” Hoskins says, “we started advertising: ‘If you own property, you owe taxes, whether you get a tax bill or not.’” A homeowner’s property value is assessed in two different ways: 1.) Limited Property Value is a legislatively established value based on a budget formula for the maintenance and operation of state, cities, school districts and community colleges. 2.) Full Cash Value is the assessor’s estimate of true market value; taxes used to fund bonds, overrides and certain districts. The assessed value of each property is determined using percentages set by the state legislature. The assessed value divided by 100, multiplied by the tax rate (set in August of each year) determines property taxes billed in September. If a homeowner disagrees with the assessed amount, they can appeal the classification of their property or the assessed valuation, but not the tax itself. It may be confusing to some homeowners why their bill differs from a similar home in the same neighborhood, but assessment is based on many factors including livable square footage,

lot size and components. Although properties might look alike on the surface there may be subtle differences. Homeowners can appeal through the assessor’s office, county board of equalization, state tax appeal board and state superior court. Or, begin the appeals process by visiting www.maricopa.gov/assessor to download the necessary forms. Phone numbers for other questions are also printed on your property tax bill.

PAN-SEARED SALMON WITH ORANGE-SCENTED LOBSTER NAGE

Featuring Phantom Horse Grillat the Arizona Grand Resort

8000 S. Arizona Grand Pkwy. • Phoenix602.438.9000 or arizonagrandresort.com

Just as the outdoors and weather can greatly affect our mood, indoor spaces also have an impact on our emotions, which is why we put so much effort into creating rooms that “feel right” for us. And whether we decorate our living spaces ourselves or work with an interior designer, what is often learned is that the art of interior design is far more complex than meets the eye. Yes, the selection and careful placement of furniture and decorative items are crucial; but the use of complementing or contrasting fabrics, textures, materials, finishes, color and lighting also come into play. These distinctive elements should all work together to not only create a room with functionality, but one that draws us in emotionally. A myriad of studies have been done researching the effect of our living spaces on our psyche. Environmental psychology studies have shown that what makes us feel comfortable and happy in our homes may be connected to survival instincts that we’ve carried within our DNA since the beginning of man. “The effectiveness and impact of interior spaces,” says Tony Sutton, designer and owner of Est, Est, Inc. in Scottsdale (who also designed the room in the accompanying photo and on the cover), “is determined by the physiological influence of the various finish materials and textures within a space. This is most effective when it has a subconscious impact

rather than a directly conscious one.” Psychological experiments suggest that humans possess strong prefer-ences for mystery, the subtle promise of a new sight lying just around the corner. Sutton also says unexpected solutions can cause you to experi-ence the full volume of the space, and unique details such as ceiling designs and ambient lighting can balance the room as well as the psyche. “As you enter a room,” Sutton explains, “you are emotionally affected by the architectural details and interior design elements. These can dictate whether the room is formal or casual, active or peaceful, warm or cool.” One’s mood is also greatly influenced by color, rough or smooth textures, the matching or mixing of patterns and solids and polished or dull finishes. Silky or plush fabrics in rich colors and intricate patterns can give an elegant and romantic feel, whereas rougher textures convey a casualness and earthiness. Color and lighting are both key to setting the stage and creating a mood. In fact, there’s a whole psychology regarding how color and lighting affect us – energizing or relaxing us and evoking a whole range of emotions. Accent hues are often used against a neutral base to create interest and give a pop of uplifting color. For the room in these photographs, Sutton chose an earthy, friendly palette of burgundy reds, golden

yellow and browns in the leather that incorporate solids and patterns of a different scale to make the room more of a family gathering place. “This room,” he says, “is definitely inviting. It beckons you to come in, sit down and relax.” The unusual form of the truss designs on the ceiling plays off the symmetry of the fireplace location and the sunken bar area allows for comfortable club chair seating within the room. Sutton’s use of walnut wood floors and area rugs add warmth, and the light patina finish on the game table balances the color of the chenille fabric on the leather chairs and the dining chairs on the far side. Custom lounge chairs with a custom nail head design add a touch of uniqueness. Sutton’s aim when he used beeswax Venetian plaster on the walls was to add texture and interest to a normally neutral background. He also created a hand-plaster detail above the hood in the kitchen, which gives softness to the work area. “When an interior space has an effective balance of elements,” Sutton explains, “whether you consciously recognize it or not, you are subconsciously being told how to react emotionally and functionally in that space. Living rooms can be made more livable, dining spaces are used more frequently and family rooms become multi- functional.”

Ingredients:4 each, 6 oz. salmon fillets12 each, Manila clams12 each, PEI mussels6 assorted baby heirloom tomatoes, cut in half1 cup Israeli cous cous1 pinch saffron2 cups lobster stock1 orange, sliced1 lemon, sliced1 bulb fennel6 cloves garlic, roughly chopped1 stick cinnamon2 pieces star anise2 shallots, roughly chopped1/4 cup pernod

Procedure:Combine the last nine ingredients together and simmer over low heat until reduced to one cup. Strain and set aside. Toast the cous cous and saffron together over medium-high heat. Add the clams, mussels, tomatoes and then the reduced stock. Cover and simmer until the clams and mussels open. Over medium-high heat, sear the salmon on both sides and cook until desired doneness (about 3 minutes per side). Spoon the cous cous and shellfish into a large bowl and then top with salmon fillet. Serve warm and enjoy.

Serves: 4

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