The excitement is in the air! As I talk about the communities where spring training games are held, the teams and real estate, the first I would like to talk about is Old Town Scottsdale. Old Town Scottsdale is the spring home of the San Francisco Giants, as they train and play their spring home games at Scottsdale Stadium.

Old Town Scottsdale is the central location for entertainment. Old Town Scottsdale is a vibrant location with plenty of art galleries, varieties of restaurants, taverns, and tons of shopping including Scottsdale Fashion Square. These attractions are what makes Old Town Scottsdale great, and many people want to live there. Besides, what’s even greater? You can own real estate in Old Town Scottsdale and walk to Scottsdale Stadium to see Cactus League baseball action and the San Francisco Giants!

Lets Talk San Francisco Giants Baseball:

2011 was a very competitive season across the National League. Was the 2010 championship season a fluke for the Giants? It certainly was not. Manager Bruce Bochy still did a good job managing this team in 201, but just came 4 games short from the wildcard, when the NL West’s Arizona Diamondbacks put the nail in the coffin during the last series against them. Think about it, Bochy had to make many shuffles in his lineups due to injuries and the trade for Carlos Beltran from the New York Mets, as a rental for the final push for the playoffs, but still came short.

The outlook for 2012 remains solid in my opinion. I do believe if the Giants can keep the line-up in-tact if they do not have the injuries like they did last year. If so, they are back in the playoff hunt and could become World Series contenders again. Offensively, hitting is still pretty solid, but some key players from 2010 championship team are gone. However, key acquisitions of Melky Cabrera and Angel Pagan could add some depth.  There are no major power hitters, and the team is not filled with a whole lot of speed. Now Carlos Beltran brief 2011 stay with the Giants are not going to help matters in hitting, but manager Bruce Bochy knows how to manage this lineup that is not too flashy. If managed properly, and the team has and buys his fundamentals in the game, he could have a contending lineup.

The starting pitching rotation is extremely solid again this year, along with their number one aceTim Lincecum, whose Earn Run Average (ERA) was just over 3.00. Four of the five projected starters for this year had ERA’s from 3.04 to 3.55 in 2011. It’s a solid rotation, which none had losing records. In the pen, I feel they have a solid setup roster, but if closer Brian Wilson remains consistent to put out the fire, look out. “Fear the beard” right?

Overall, if they play the proper fundamentals, stay healthy, I believe the Giants will be back in World Series form. Bruce Bochy knows how to manage this team, and will be extremely competitive against other teams. From the wildcard standpoint, I see contenders from the National League East, Central, and certainly the West all have that shot. From the West, the San Francisco Giants are still in that category. A solid manager and good pitching are the keys to get at least a wildcard berth.

Old Town Scottsdale Real Estate For Sale for San Francisco Giants Fans:

Showing properties 1 – 10 of 116. See more 85251 zip code real estate.
(all data current as of 2/1/2012)

1. $534,000 : 7117 E Rancho Vista Drive, Unit 2005, Scottsdale
   
   2 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 1,635 sq ft

   Lot size: 1,635 sq ft

   
2. $239,000 : 4200 N Miller Road, Unit 111, Scottsdale
   
   3 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 1,419 sq ft

   Lot size: 1,389 sq ft

   
3. $279,000 : 7141 E Rancho Vista Drive, Unit 1007, Scottsdale
   
   1 bed, 1.00 baths

   Home size: 888 sq ft

   Lot size: 887 sq ft

   
4. $245,000 : 4710 N 70th Street, Scottsdale
   
   3 beds, 3.00 baths

   Home size: 2,163 sq ft

   Lot size: 13,888 sq ft

   
5. $200,000 : 8545 E Heatherbrae Drive, Scottsdale
   
   3 beds, 2.50 baths

   Home size: 1,850 sq ft

   Lot size: 7,032 sq ft

   
6. $179,000 : 7960 E Camelback Road, Unit 201, Scottsdale
   
   2 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 1,369 sq ft

   Lot size: 1,581 sq ft

   
7. $295,000 : 4200 N Miller Road, Unit 423, Scottsdale
   
   3 beds, 2.75 baths

   Home size: 1,977 sq ft

   
8. $145,000 : 8339 E Devonshire Avenue, Scottsdale
   
   3 beds, 1.75 baths

   Home size: 1,416 sq ft

   Lot size: 7,074 sq ft

   
9. $259,000 : 7181 E Camelback Road, Unit 1031, Scottsdale
   
   1 bed, 1.00 baths

   Home size: 525 sq ft

   
10. $209,900 : 8701 E Columbus Avenue, Scottsdale
    
    4 beds, 2.00 baths

    Home size: 2,042 sq ft

    Lot size: 8,426 sq ft

    

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Red walls, chandeliers, and forty flat screen TV’s run throughout the club.  The lounge’s signature shot is the Smash It, a blend of five flavored vodkas, cranberry juice and Red Bull.  Smashboxx is also home to one of the first nightclub video booths they call the HotBoxx.  It gives you a look at just some of the craziness that goes on.

Why go to Smashboxx?  House music, huge dancefloor, good looking people, and the HotBoxx!!  Smashboxx is a guaranteed good time for those who love to dance, indulge, and avoid awkward small talk.  To view pictures, watch crazy Hot Boxx videos, or check out upcoming events visit Smashboxxaz.com.

Smashboxx

7419 E Indian Plaza Dr., Scottsdale. 480-294-9186.

Monday-Friday 3 p.m.-2 a.m.

Saturday-Sunday 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

DJ’s

Over the past several years, the game and the rules of buying real estate have significantly changed. Today, the affordability and the ability of buying real estate in places like Scottsdale, Phoenix and throughout the Phoenix Valley Metro Area have changed. Unfortunately, the practices of lending have changed due to the significance of high foreclosures and short sales. They result the major losses in property values. Of course, the regulations have changed. Yet, the buyer is looking get the most of his or her purchasing value. Yes, the opportunities are there. When you are in the buying mode, you need to avoid significant mistakes.

Here are seven most common mistakes you need to avoid in buying real estate:

• Holding onto your home before buying real estate:

You must sell your home first! In this current market it may take longer to sell a home than you expect.  The one thing is, the lending process these days are strict, and there’s the possibility the loan could fall through because the buyer did not qualify to buy your home. Carrying that second mortgage is a major responsibility while you attempt to sell your sell your current home.

• Not addressing your Credit Score before buying real estate:

Lending practices and credit markets are tighter than ever these days. If you are looking for a lower interest rate, or most likely, getting a loan, you must have excellent credit score. If you have poor credit score, like a 580 score, then there maybe additional help for you. You can check your score at no additional costs.

• Skip the prequalification and pre-approval process before looking for real estate:

Not getting prequalified is a mistake of which you could be looking at homes well beyond your loan approval budget. Getting the preapproval will set you in a position to narrow your search based on your needs and the location you can afford. Plus, it’s a time saver for you and me as your buyer’s agent. Talk to a trusted lender and get pre-approved.

• Not knowing when to stay and when to walk away:

Yes, buyers have more power than ever in the negotiating process. Don’t fear to make a lower offer. Don’t be afraid to make a mistake of walking away because of a few thousands of dollars. Think of this way. A few thousands of dollars could translate to less than $100 a month on the mortgage. Not much money at all.

• Not knowing the total costs involved in buying real estate:

Many buyers, especially first time buyers need to know and understand the costs associated in buying a home. They include closing costs, title insurance, and lawyer fees as well as ongoing costs such as property taxes, homeowner association dues, utilities, and yard maintenance. Ask me or a mortgage representative to provide you with an average amount of additional closing costs so that you can work with them in your budget.

• Signing contracts with contingencies in real estate:

This could cost you big bucks if you make this critical mistake. Do not sign a contract allowing sellers stay in the homes for an extended period of time. You do not want to run the risk of losing your interest rate if you allow them to have extentions of staying in the home. If a deal falls through, then you are back to square one to search a home again. Have me explain the contract to you and explain any contingencies that are involved so you get a good understanding of what will occur.

• Not purchasing real estate protection plan:

When you purchase your home, you never know what problems may arise. Get at least a one year protection plan, or these problems will cost you big.

In conclusion of avoiding mistakes in buying real estate:

So buying real estate can be an exciting time of your life, but I want it to keep your anxiety levels down. If you are seeking real estate in Scottsdale, Phoenix, and throughout the Valley Metro Area, check out some of these homes:

Scottsdale (DC Ranch) Real Estate:

Showing properties 1 – 5 of 54. See more Dc Ranch community real estate.
(all data current as of 12/9/2011)

1. $399,000 : 20704 N 90th Place, Unit 1029, Scottsdale
   
   3 beds, 2.50 baths

   Home size: 2,074 sq ft

   Lot size: 2,355 sq ft

   

2. $425,000 : 18650 N Thompson Peak Parkway, Unit 1043, Scottsdale
   
   3 beds, 2.50 baths

   Home size: 2,430 sq ft

   Lot size: 2,375 sq ft

   

3. $799,000 : 9827 E Buteo Drive, Scottsdale
   
   4 beds, 3.50 baths

   Home size: 3,924 sq ft

   Lot size: 10,259 sq ft

   

4. $1,590,000 : 9810 E Thompson Peak Parkway, Unit 814, Scottsdale
   
   3 beds, 4.50 baths

   Home size: 4,600 sq ft

   Lot size: 42,334 sq ft

   

5. $539,000 : 9273 E Canyon View Road, Scottsdale
   
   4 beds, 3.00 baths

   Home size: 2,563 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,513 sq ft

   

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Scottsdale (Oldtown) Real Estate:

Showing properties 1 – 1 of 1. See more Old Town Scottsdale community real estate.
(all data current as of 12/9/2011)

1. $314,900 : 7770 E Camelback Road, Unit 3, Scottsdale
   
   2 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 2,377 sq ft

   Lot size: 4,404 sq ft

   

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Phoenix (Desert Ridge) Real Estate:

Showing properties 1 – 5 of 15. See more Desert Ridge community real estate.
(all data current as of 12/9/2011)

1. $413,069 : 23321 N 41st Street, Phoenix
   
   4 beds, 2.50 baths

   Home size: 3,207 sq ft

   Lot size: 11,047 sq ft

   

2. $449,000 : 4018 E Adobe Drive, Phoenix
   
   5 beds, 3.00 baths

   Home size: 3,507 sq ft

   Lot size: 10,405 sq ft

   

3. $195,000 : 5450 E Deer Valley Drive, Unit 1012, Phoenix
   
   2 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 1,246 sq ft

   

4. $369,391 : 4314 E Hashknife Road, Phoenix
   
   3 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 2,306 sq ft

   Lot size: 6,900 sq ft

   

5. $374,790 : 4312 E Knudsen Drive, Phoenix
   
   4 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 2,528 sq ft

   Lot size: 7,261 sq ft

   

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Phoenix (Biltmore) Real Estate:

Showing properties 1 – 5 of 5. See more Biltmore community real estate.
(all data current as of 12/9/2011)

1. $275,000 : 5747 N 18th Street, Phoenix
   
   3 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 1,527 sq ft

   Lot size: 7,540 sq ft

   

2. $345,000 : 5136 N 31st Place, Unit 647, Phoenix
   
   2 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 1,319 sq ft

   Lot size: 1,315 sq ft

   

3. $494,999 : 2544 E Missouri Avenue, Phoenix
   
   5 beds, 3.00 baths

   Home size: 2,996 sq ft

   Lot size: 8,377 sq ft

   

4. $550,000 : 3125 E Claremont Avenue, Phoenix
   
   3 beds, 3.00 baths

   Home size: 2,879 sq ft

   Lot size: 8,272 sq ft

   

5. $625,000 : 3114 E Claremont Avenue, Phoenix
   
   4 beds, 2.50 baths

   Home size: 2,509 sq ft

   Lot size: 8,133 sq ft

   

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

Cave Creek Real Estate:

Showing properties 1 – 5 of 293. See more city of Cave Creek real estate.
(all data current as of 12/9/2011)

1. $217,500 : 4628 E Roy Rogers Road, Cave Creek
   
   4 beds, 3.00 baths

   Home size: 2,564 sq ft

   Lot size: 6,422 sq ft

   

2. $1,150,000 : 7926 E Grapevine Road, Cave Creek
   
   3 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 3,062 sq ft

   Lot size: 6.83 ac

   

3. $215,000 : 6512 E Windstone Trail, Cave Creek
   
   3 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 1,710 sq ft

   Lot size: 1.16 ac

   

4. $224,900 : 4619 E Laredo Lane, Cave Creek
   
   4 beds, 3.00 baths

   Home size: 2,132 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,625 sq ft

   

5. $224,900 : 4944 E Roberta Drive, Cave Creek
   
   3 beds, 2.50 baths

   Home size: 1,963 sq ft

   Lot size: 5,290 sq ft

   

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

My very first experience was when I transferred high schools. I transferred to a school where I didn’t know anybody. Almost everybody didn’t have that experience during their younger years.  Second, I went to a college where I also didn’t know anyone. Most people and friends I knew during my high school years didn’t have to experience it as they didn’t travel far to obtain higher education. I grew up in a community where the majority of these folks would go to the same school, an hour south and knew many people before they even stepped foot on campus. I went to a small college in out-of-state where nobody in my original area went.  Upon my move from my home state of Ohio, I knew people already from the source from transplanted family members, and it was already much easier in the process.

Some of you will have your experience for the first time ever if you relocate to a community like Scottsdale or Phoenix, and not know anyone.  From my numerous of experiences, and my new involvements, I can advise you some of the things you need to do in meeting new people, so will become a very easy experience for you.

For example, I feel this is the best time of year to meet people. I would say that especially if you are relocating to “the valley” from the midwest part of our country like Iowa, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Illinois or even Ohio, where you went to a major college in one of these states. If you didn’t go to a major college, but are college football fan of a major program in one of these states, it’s not a problem. So many people all over the country have transplanted to “the valley”, where many collegiate alumni networking groups have formed, where you can join, get involved, and get active! You do not have to go to that particular school. This page below has all the details.

Valley Metro Alumni Groups

Perhaps, you want to learn more about your community like Scottsdale. There are several organizations to look into including:

North Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce

Scottsdale Chamber of Commerce

If you are into recreation and athletics, the City of Scottsdale provides numerous of leagues.

Scottsdale Athletics and Recreation

There are many organizations to choose from networking groups, social groups, and collegiate alumni networking groups. These links are one of a few where you can connect your new community! You can also check out Meetup pages for Scottsdale.

Meetup Groups in Scottsdale and Phoenix

Before you get acquainted with your new community, you need a place to live! If you are looking for a place to rent, there are many condominiums to choose from!

Showing properties 1 – 10 of 500+. See more city of Scottsdale real estate.
(all data current as of 10/14/2011)

1. $1,495 : 27020 N 64th Way, Scottsdale
   
   2 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 2,210 sq ft

   Lot size: 35,000 sq ft

   

2. $1,600 : 7777 E 2 Nd Street, Unit 217, Scottsdale
   
   2 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 1,303 sq ft

   Lot size: 7,500 sq ft

   

3. $1,600 : 6534 E Night Glow Circle, Scottsdale
   
   2 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 1,974 sq ft

   Lot size: 7,500 sq ft

   

4. $1,450 : 7009 E Acoma Drive, Unit 1060, Scottsdale
   
   3 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 1,264 sq ft

   

5. $1,000 : 4600 N 68th Street, Unit 378, Scottsdale
   
   2 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 1,020 sq ft

   

6. $1,750 : 8144 E Maria Drive, Scottsdale
   
   4 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 1,854 sq ft

   Lot size: 7,500 sq ft

   

7. $1,299 : 7009 E Acoma Drive, Unit 1153, Scottsdale
   
   2 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 1,158 sq ft

   

8. $1,400 : 7009 E Acoma Drive, Unit 1112, Scottsdale
   
   2 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 1,158 sq ft

   Lot size: 7,500 sq ft

   

9. $1,600 : 9268 E Lupine Avenue, Scottsdale
   
   3 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 1,443 sq ft

   Lot size: 10,000 sq ft

   

10. $995 : 9708 E Via Linda Street, Unit 2311, Scottsdale
    
    2 beds, 2.00 baths

    Home size: 1,038 sq ft

    

Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

If you are looking to buy a home, I can assist you in buying a home or condominium that’s right for your budget! There are many affordable homes to choose from in this buyer’s market.

Showing properties 1 – 10 of 500+. See more city of Scottsdale real estate.
(all data current as of 10/14/2011)

1. $359,500 : 9416 E Wood Drive, Scottsdale
   
   4 beds, 2.75 baths

   Home size: 2,311 sq ft

   Lot size: 6,826 sq ft

   

2. $325,000 : 11000 N 77th Place, Unit 1055, Scottsdale
   
   2 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 1,422 sq ft

   Lot size: 1,422 sq ft

   

3. $450,000 : 6448 E Hearn Road, Scottsdale
   
   5 beds, 3.00 baths

   Home size: 3,391 sq ft

   Lot size: 18,170 sq ft

   

4. $389,000 : 5119 E Poinsettia Drive, Scottsdale
   
   4 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 2,340 sq ft

   Lot size: 10,420 sq ft

   

5. $475,000 : 6711 E Amber Sun Drive, Scottsdale
   
   3 beds, 2.50 baths

   Home size: 2,358 sq ft

   Lot size: 7,696 sq ft

   

6. $425,000 : 7805 E Montebello Avenue, Scottsdale
   
   3 beds, 2.50 baths

   Home size: 2,559 sq ft

   Lot size: 4,550 sq ft

   

7. $449,900 : 7682 E Wingtip Way, Scottsdale
   
   4 beds, 3.00 baths

   Home size: 2,519 sq ft

   Lot size: 7,800 sq ft

   

8. $375,000 : 9038 N 81st Street, Scottsdale
   
   4 beds, 2.50 baths

   Home size: 2,844 sq ft

   Lot size: 11,343 sq ft

   

9. $259,900 : 8245 E Bell Road, Unit 211, Scottsdale
   
   2 beds, 2.00 baths

   Home size: 1,528 sq ft

   Lot size: 221 sq ft

   

10. $310,750 : 12412 N 57th Way, Scottsdale
    
    4 beds, 2.75 baths

    Home size: 2,465 sq ft

    Lot size: 15,122 sq ft

    

    Listing information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Read full disclaimer.

    As we go through the home search process, I can assist you in finding the activities that’s right for you as I welcome you to “the valley of the sun”!

I guess what I’m trying to say is, yes, as a Realtor we want to stay connected with you. That way if you need help buying or selling a house down the line you will think of us. We understand the benefit of staying connected with YOU. Have you ever sat down and thought how connecting with a Realtor could benefit you or your business. Try it out. Email me as I would love to connect with you.

As always, if you want more information on Scottsdale Short Sales And Foreclosure or on just Scottsdale, Arizona, please don’t hesitate to visit my other websites. (RealEstateWizKid.com, RealScottsdaleRealEstate.com)

Sincerely,

Jeff Buettner

Realtor at The Buettner Team

480-365-8025

Jeff@TheBuettnerTeam.com