Nick's having some fun with Fox!

Here is a copy of the new commercial we shot a couple of weeks ago at the Fox 10 News studios. Most will run as a 15 second commercial during news casts, sit-coms, sporting events etc. Some will be 30 second commercials with another "featured" agent. So, "Just You Watch" to see your friend, Nick on tv this year! So far, these guys have been a lot of fun to work with. Also, please take a look at the new page of mine on www.myfoxphoenix.com. My direct link on their site can be found by clicking here.. You know what they say.. The camera adds 10 pounds and I really do wish they wouldn't have used so many cameras! :-)
We are looking forward to promoting real estate in a positive light over the next twelve months. Having the media do some "positive press" might help get a few people off of the fence. I really do believe there are some good opportunities in the market right now and look forward to promoting our valley's real estate market along with Fox 10 and My 45 news channels. Thanks for stopping by!

Spring has Sprung! - A couple of helpful hints

We all know, it is hard to beat Arizona this time of year. We enjoy some really beautiful weather and have a ton of outdoor options available to us.
Another thing we ALL know is that summer will be here before you soon! Yep, those 100 degree days are right around the corner. With the change in weather, you might want to check a couple of things around the house to be ready.
1. Your landscaping system should be checked for leaks, broken sprinkler heads etc. and the timers will probably need to be adjusted soon.
2. If you have a pool, it is normally a good idea to have it checked out. Make sure to check the timer as you will want it to run longer in the summer months. Also, make sure any gaskets are in good condition. These are easy and inexpensive ways to prolong the life and save you some money in the long run.
The investment in your home is an important one. Routine maintenance is always a good idea.
Have a great Spring and please keep me in mind if you want to take in a ball game. :-)
For more helpful hints, please feel free to visit the Home Improvements & Helpful Hints page on our web site!

What is your "Walk Score?"

There are many factors that will go help in the decision when you purchase your next home. Of course, location plays a major factor in most sound real estate purchases. To help find out how "walkable" a neighborhood is, you can check out this nifty web site that will give your neighborhood a "score" based on the amenities near by.
My neighborhood in South Tempe scores a "decent" 66. At 70, a neighborhood is considered "very walkable" according to the guys at Walk Score. Here is their break down..

90 - 100 = Walkers' Paradise: Most errands can be accomplished on foot and many people get by without owning a car. 70 - 90 = Very Walkable: It's possible to get by without owning a car. 50 - 70 = Some Walkable Locations: Some stores and amenities are within walking distance, but many everyday trips still require a bike, public transportation, or car.
25 - 50 = Not Walkable: Only a few destinations are within easy walking range. For most errands, driving or public transportation is a must.
0 - 25 = Driving Only: Virtually no neighborhood destinations within walking range. You can walk from your house to your car!

Most of our valley is pretty spread out and the thought of walking to conveniences isn't even a consideration. Give your house a try.. It is kind of fun..

Thanks to my buddy Brad at TechKnowBabble for the find!

Hoops, Real Estate and Politics

One of the all time best dunks by anyone wearing a Suns uniform was Kevin Johnson going off on Hakeem Olajuwon. I always liked Kevin as he played hard, had a lot of talent and seemed like a genuinely nice guy. Since retiring from basketball, he has been involved in real estate development and has now decided to run for mayor of Sacramento. When I read this, I was a little surprised but not entirely. I wish him well but mostly, I wanted to share this video with you. :-) I remember watching this game and literally jumping to my feet when he dunked on the big guy..

Turning the Corner?

We have discussed, at length, the real estate market and the fact that the media has basically been telling people NOT to buy real estate for quite some time. Just as the market had been "over-hyped" into an unhealthy frenzy a couple of years ago, I have felt the same thing has been happening over the past several months, or so.
Recently, I have seen a couple of articles that have mentioned the fact that, gasp, some homes are actually selling! I also had an opportunity to meet with some nice folks at one of the large news channels recently to discuss a new series that will be talking about real estate. Wow, imagine that, they are actually going to promote real estate! There will be television commercials and featured space on their web site for several different areas.
Will this be enough to get people off of the fence? Are they really waiting, as some have suggested, for the media to tell them it s "ok" to buy real estate again? Only time will tell but it looks like a step in a new direction to me. Let's watch.. In fact, check back soon for a special announcement! :-)