Holiday Gift Ideas for the Men in Your Life

The holiday season is upon us. On the likely hunch that you’re still not done with your shopping list, here are a few ideas for the special men in your life – spouses, significant others, dads, brothers, sons and co-workers.

Sports-Themed Gifts

 

Most boys – young and old alike – are sports fans. They either participate in sports or support a local team or both. Find out which sport and then it’s hard to go wrong. If they are a mountain bike enthusiast, consider a new riding helmet or other biking accessory. If they are more of an armchair sports fanatic, think about an athlete’s biography or sports clothing or memorabilia relating to their favorite team. Tickets to a local sporting event are always a big hit.

Travel-Related Gifts

It does not matter if they are a frequent business traveler or a weekend wanderer; every man needs a good set of luggage. Adventure travelers would appreciate a wearable GoPro camera or underwater camera while a frequent flyer might appreciate nothing more than a quality travel pillow or a new travel case for their laptop or tablet.

Hobby-Related Gifts

Is that special guy on your shopping list a vinyl record collector or a vintage car enthusiast? Perhaps he is a wine lover or microbrewery fan. Discover his favorite pastime and select a gift that fits the man.

Clothing Accessories

Most men enjoy looking good and put together, but some need a bit more help than others when it comes to selecting the right accessories. The holiday season presents a perfect opportunity to launch a mini-fashion makeover. Clothes do make the man and unique neckties, cuff links, belts and leather gloves make great gifts.

If You Are Really Stumped for Gift Ideas

If all these ideas fall short, remember that most men are still little boys at heart and they love their big boy toys - electronics, tools and all types of gadgets. For the “manly man” on your gift list, check out Mancrates.com, a unique online retailer that puts together “gift crates” that require a crowbar to open. The crowbar is included! Think of it as a gift basket for the testosterone crowd. Launched on the motto that “We don’t save wrapping paper, we don’t do ribbons”, Man Crates supplies masculine-themed crates for lovers of meat, jerky, hot and spicy snacks, personalized barware, barbecue tools and novelty sport items. They even offer a “Zombie Annihilation Crate.”

All this is fun and the possibilities for gift ideas are endless, but don’t be afraid to grow sentimental and let the men in your life know how much they are loved and appreciated. A simple greeting card with a personal message along with a framed photo of you and your loved one will certainly strike the right chord. The card can be store-bought, but handmade is better.

Holiday shopping should be fun, not stressful. Half of the fun is in the hunt. Happy hunting!

$270,000 - 4228 E. Mulberry Dr., Phoenix, AZ 85018

http://4228emulberrydr.AgentMarketing.com?rs=youtube
For more info and pics, Text "4135428" to 79564

Arcadia Area Home for Sale

Highly desirable Arcadia area with so much potential! Beautiful green, mature trees welcome you into this charming home. New exterior paint and dual pane windows. Well kept home with few updates needed to move in or rebuild. This is a variable price ranged property. Seller will entertain all offers between $250,000 - $270,000.

Shara's Advice on Thanksgiving Leftovers

Regardless of whether your Thanksgiving dinner involves your entire extended family or an intimate gathering for two, it seems that there is always tons of leftover food. Don't fret about it because there is absolutely no need for the food to go to waste. Leftover turkey is not only delicious - it's healthy and versatile, too!

Turkey is Good for You

Turkey is a lean white meat recommended by doctors and dietitians in just about all sensible eating plans. We all worry about packing on extra pounds on Thanksgiving and throughout the holidays, but rest assured that turkey is not a diet buster. It is a great source of lean protein that helps build muscle while satisfying hunger.

Unlike red meat, turkey actually works to lower cholesterol levels while strengthening the immune system at the same time. Our immune systems can all use the extra boost this time of year. Turkey is also a valuable source of antioxidants, potassium, zinc, iron and phosphorous - just about everything the doctor ordered. TV fitness trainer Jillian Michaels is a big fan of turkey and lists skinless turkey as one of her favorite weight loss foods.

Endless Possibilities for Leftover Turkey Recipes

There is much more to Thanksgiving leftovers than just turkey soup and sandwiches. Use your imagination and different seasonings to come up with your own recipes. Try a turkey calzone or turkey with Asian seasonings and rice. Maybe go the Mexican route with turkey tacos and enchiladas. Websites such as allrecipes.com provide hundreds of recipes for turkey leftovers along with user reviews. A few of this year's highest-rated recipes include Sweet Leftover Turkey Salad, Grandma Carlson's Turkey Pot Pie and Zippy and Tangy Turkey Rice Soup.

Leftovers are an Excuse for a Party

The fastest way to clean out a refrigerator is to invite a few friends over to share the leftovers. Keep it casual and just put out the food and enjoy the company of a few close friends with leftovers and a glass of wine. It's a fun way to maintain the Thanksgiving holiday glow the day after the big event.

When storing turkey and any leftovers, make sure to follow the safety protocols for leftover food storage. All leftovers should be frozen or refrigerated immediately following the meal in order to prevent food poisoning and harmful bacteria growth.

Many things in life are actually better the second time around and delicious turkey leftovers are one of them. Get a little creative with your leftovers this year and dazzle friends and family with your culinary ingenuity.

Happy Thanksgiving! Wishing you and your loved ones a warm and relaxing holiday.

Palm Valley Charmer

http://15683wmonterosast.CanBYours.com?rs=youtube
For more info and pics, Text "6847230" to 79564

15683 W Monterosa St, Goodyear, AZ 85395

Charming, newer single story home in desirable Palm Valley with your own private, sparkling pool and resort backyard. Welcome to this split, open floor plan with a wide, grand entrance, spacious kitchen, great room and laundry room, 3 bedrooms PLUS office/den. Custom master closet and tile in all the right places. Near shopping, restaurants, schools and sporting events. Perfect family home! Call Shara Terry at 602-692-0538 for the most accurate information.

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Laveen Living!

Finally, you can have it ALL! Stunning, newer home AND land. Room for everything...children, dogs and even horses to run around; bikes, quads and all of your toys on YOUR property. Five cars can fit in this garage and space to store all your collections. Perfect entertaining home with separate wine room and a gourmet kitchen including double ovens, gas stove, huge island and beautiful cabinetry. A Chef's delight! Split floor plan with beautiful tile in most areas. Come home to the mountain, sunrise and sunset views and enjoy having it ALL! Call Shara Terry at 602.692.0538 for the most accurate information.

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These Are the People In My Neighborhood

 "Don't buy the house, buy the neighborhood." 

- Russian Proverb

This is an interesting and complex quote. As Realtors, we constantly market our ability to get houses bought and sold, but we sometimes market a neighborhood as simply "the area which holds the house". I've always felt like the neighborhood and the home are equally important. The way you feel stepping through your own front door is vital to your happiness, and the way you feel when you step out your front door is just as significant. I firmly believe a neighborhood is not defined by types of buildings or location. It's defined by the atmosphere created by the people living there. What interesting people live in your neighborhood?

I've got a neighbor and friend who recently published a book. Chuck Powell is exactly the type of person who makes Arcadia fascinating. To market his book, Qintessa, he held a book signing and dinner at The Henry, a popular neighborhood restaurant. I love the fact that Mr. Powell not only resides in Arcadia, but he chose to use a local establishment for this important event. Chuck is an engaging writer and storyteller, and I'm proud to claim him as an Arcadian!

When you're searching for your next new home, I encourage you to not just think about the type of house you want -- think also about the type of neighbors you want and about the atmosphere that surrounds you when you step outside your front door. This preference will vary for everyone, but one thing is certain: every neighborhood has interesting people. I think the folksy, old proverb above has it right. So get to know the people in your neighborhood, you just might be surprised!

http://www.chuckpowellwriter.com/bio

Camelback Corridor

Location times 3! Amazing opportunity to own in this quiet, 24 hour guarded,gated community so close to shopping, dining, old town Scottsdale living. This charming, updated unit is well cared for and very clean with a 2 car tandem carport. Casa del Monte is known for its amenities: 3 pools, heated spa, clubhouse, fitness center, tennis and sport courts, on-site management with private landscaping/maintenance staff. A perfect lock and leave home! Please note this is a land lease complex.

http://4525n66thst33.CanBYours.com?rs=youtube
For more info and pics, Text "6781351" to 79564 $135,000 - 4525 N 66th St #33, Scottsdale, AZ 85251

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I Made My Memory Dynamic

"If you wish to forget anything on the spot, make a note that this thing is to be remembered." Edgar Allan Poe

Who knew Edgar Allan Poe had such a mischievous sense of humor! Mr. Poe makes a good point, however: the stress of needing to remember something can actually sabotage our recollection of it. As a Realtor, it's important for me to keep my memory as keen as can be. Clients' names and faces, nuances of contracts, details of a property -- these are a only a few things a real estate agent must keep in her head if she is to be successful.

Luckily, I work for a brokerage firm that is always looking for ways to help its agents expand their minds and grow intellectually. At Keller Williams, thinking outside the box is highly valued. Many real estate deals can be won or lost based on the creativity of the Realtor's search for solutions. Throughout the year, Keller Williams presents a plethora of options for us to explore and hosts representatives from programs we may find beneficial. One of these was a recent visit from a representative of Ultimate Recall. After listening to the presentation, I attended the Memory Dynamic Program at Gainey Ranch Golf Club in Scottsdale.

For two days, those of us in attendance experienced an intense workshop related to instant recall and communication skills. There was a strong focus on training your brain to use imagery to remember things. The program went even further in teaching us how to apply our new skills to building rapport and improving our business acumen.

If you ever have a chance to attend a Memory Dynamic workshop, then I highly recommend it. I had a great time, met many interesting new people, and learned a great deal. I can't wait to put all my newfound insight to work for my clients!

http://www.ultimaterecall.com/

Nobody is Sad When They're Eating Mac'n Cheese

 

"Food is the most primitive form of comfort." 

- Sheila Graham

One of my favorite comfort foods is macaroni and cheese, and I would wager it's true for thousands of Americans! Maybe your favorite food is something different, but everyone has something they reach for when they just want to eat to feel satisfied. When I say satisfied, I also mean emotionally satisfied. Movies and popcorn, backyards and barbecues, birthdays and cake... We associate good times with good food. Calories, carbs, and nutrients step aside -- sometimes all we want is to dig into a dish that reminds us of how good life is!

My favorite places to get macaroni and cheese are right in my own neighborhood of Arcadia. The cozy and modern Chelsea's Kitchen serves Baked Mac'n Cheese that's simply delicious. I also go to The Vig for their aptly named Holy Mac and Cheese and patio seating. The Vig describes themselves as "sleekly designed but infinitely comfortable" and I will vouch for that! (They also get extra points for having Cheesy Tater Tots. Talk about comfort food!)

I'm loyal to my old hangouts for my go-to comfort food, but I'm always on the lookout for exciting, new restaurants. In Arcadia, there is never a shortage of cool places to eat. The Henry, Steak 44, and The Market by Jennifer's are a few places where I plan on finding some great new dishes. O.H.S.O Eatery and Brewery, Chestnut Fine Food and Provisions, and Flower Child also recently opened in our neighborhood. I know I've probably missed a few, but that only goes to show how abundant our supply of fantastic new businesses is!

Needless to say, I love living in such a vibrant, enriching neighborhood. Arcadia is not just a place to live. It's a place to eat as well! Here's to comfort food and the places that make it! 
http://thevig.us/
http://www.chelseaskitchenaz.com/
http://iamaflowerchild.com/

Are You Ready to Buy Up?

A few years ago, when the economy and the real estate market was fragile, "downsizing" was the buzzword of the day. Happily, today the market is recovering and robust, and buyer confidence is high. Many real estate clients are presently in a position of being able to buy up. Of course, this buyer attitude also bodes well for sellers! In real estate, what's good for one is usually good for the other.

The types of clients considering buying up are diverse. Young professionals make a up a healthy part of this demographic. They are often financially secure, savvy with money, and ambitious. You might say these are the people who have worked hard and are now "at the top of their game". It's likely those in this group want to move into a thriving urban area and be close to the action. They value their leisure time, and spending it in a long commute just isn't in their plans when they think of a happy life! Neighborhoods like Arcadia, with it's established residences, retro vibe, and proximity to trendy businesses, is a popular location for many in this buyer group. It's safe to say these types of clients usually aren't looking for fixer uppers -- they are too busy with both work and play.

In addition to our young professionals, there are a multitude of others who might be a part of this pool of buyers: empty nesters, executives, and families who have outgrown their starter home are just a few more examples of the type of client able to buy up. Do you think you might be in the exciting position of being able to buy into your dream home? Your Realtor is an excellent resource for guidance and advice as you consider your options to move up.

Arizona Real Estate with Shara Terry

Deciding on the right home goes beyond bedrooms and bathrooms. Your neighbourhood should be the perfect complement to your lifestyle. Do you have a busy family that loves sports and recreation? Are you a young couple that enjoys restaurants and nightlife? Choose a home that is situated within a close proximity to all the things that you enjoy during your spare time. 

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Dogs, Wine, and Arcadia

We who live in Arcadia have a good-humored saying to sum up our neighborhood: to live here, you must love dogs and wine. While there are certainly other indications of a life lived well, who can argue that the company of a good dog and a fine bottle of spirits aren't some of humanities greatest treasures? Our lovable dogs are symbolic of an earthy, friendly environment. Enjoying of a glass of wine with people who make us happy implies a joie de vivre. Do these things describe Arcadia? We definitely think so!
 
Arcadia is nestled between Scottsdale and Biltmore and is known for its older, charming, established homes and landscape with a proximity to a fun, urban lifestyle. "Older" in this case doesn't only mean grand, historic houses with sprawling yards, although those are one type of property you might find here. Arcadia also has houses that might better be described as retro: bungalows with a classy 1950's vibe; ranches with cool features from the 1970s; many have been remodeled with new, contemporary look and feel or anything in between. Buildings that once housed post offices or gas stations have been converted into unique and creative businesses. Lots here are generally larger than other neighborhoods and there are plenty of green spaces. Arcadia has a walkable character and residents enjoy numerous dog parks; parks; and proximity to fantastic bars, restaurants, and shops.
 
How would I describe the typical Arcadian? I probably couldn't! Our residents are diverse and span every age group and demographic. If the inhabitants of Arcadia have one thing in common, I'd have to say it would be this: they are the type of people who value the happiness of coming home everyday to a thriving, beautiful neighborhood. If this sounds like the type of place where you would like your find your dream home, I'd love to share my experiences in this wonderful part of Phoenix with you.

Why I Adore the Arizona Cardinals

"Teamwork can be summed up in five short words -- 'We believe in each other'". Author unknown.

 

To say I am a die-hard Arizona Cardinals fan would be an understatement. I am a season ticket holder and I love football, but my loyalty to my team runs deeper than that. I appreciate the players for their personal contributions to their communities and their unwavering devotion to each other in pursuit of these goals. The Cardinals are impressive in their team work while on the field, but they are even more impressive in their team work off of the field.

 

In April, I had the privilege of attending the annual Larry Fitzgerald Celebrity Softball Game. Larry is just one example of the extraordinary young men that make me proud of my Cardinals. 2014 marked the fourth year Mr. Fitzgerald has hosted the event, which donates proceeds to his charity, The Larry Fitzgerald First Down Fund. The charity helps families in crises by supporting health organizations and positive activities for kids . Celebrities such as singer Ashanti, NFL players, and others humbly donated their time and spirit to the cause. Several Cardinals teammates participated in the event with Mr. Fitzgerald, including Jay Freely, Antonio Cromartie, Patrick Peterson, Calais Campbell, Darnell Dockett and Andre Roberts. I loved seeing my team working together off the field for such an important cause!

 

The camaraderie among the players as they played softball and made this event successful was fun to witness. Watching these guys generously sign autographs and interact with the attendees made me proud to be an Arizonian. Our Cardinals really do live the motto -- "we believe in each other". I hope to see you at the Larry Fitzgerald Celebrity Softball Game next spring. Nice work Cardinals, and thank you for continuing to make me honored to be an Arizona Cardinals fan.

 

http://www.larryfitzgerald.com/fanzone/events/event/285/larry_fitzgerald_celebrity_softball_game.aspx

 

http://www.larryfitzgerald.com/helpingpeople/firstdownfund/

Back into Homeownership - How Long Do You Have to Wait?

Welcome Home!

Over the past decade we saw home purchases rise and fall - and now it seems that we're back on the rise.  Here's why: many people who lost homes in foreclosure or who had to short-sell their home several years ago are now ready to buy again. 

In fact, according to recent surveys, 80% of people who lost their homes during the financial crisis are interested in buying again.   The good news is that a majority are reporting their debt is down and their income is up.

Sounds like the perfect formula for buying a home and getting back on track.

The biggest misconception that I run intois that they can't qualify for a loan.  But with new programs designed to help these "boomerang buyers" return to homeownership, it's definitely worth looking into.

Here's the breakdown from a Realtor.org article on the timelines that a homeowner who went through short sale or foreclosure will have to wait:

Gorgeous Home for Sale in Arizona Country Club - Phoenix, AZ

This Arcadia home is a dream come true.  Just off the 17th hole of the Arizona Country Club's golf course, you will love the privacy and lifestyle this home offers.  Want to see more about this gorgeous home for sale in Arizona Country Club?  Click here.

Why a Low Number of Distressed Sales is Good News for Phoenix

 

There's been a lot of talk about the Phoenix Real Estate Market.  Things are starting to settle into a routine, and all of the statistics show that we've transitioned into a buyer's market.  

One of the things that I find interesting in all of this is the number of non-distressed sales.  The pie chart above shows that in February 2014, REO and Short Sales only accounted for 14% of the overall sales in the Phoenix Market.

So with all of the talk about a "Buyer's Market" hitting the papers, why do I think this is such a great time for sellers?  

We're seeing the market level out. Now that the distressed sales have gone down, we're seeing a more accurate market-value reflected in the prices of sold homes.  This gives appraisers a better feel for what a home is actually worth.  Of course, there are still neighborhoods that have a skewed value due to a high number of distressed sales.  But there are ways for us to appeal appraisals in neighborhoods that have that stigma.

Overall, the Phoenix Real Estate Market is a great place to buy or sell right now! 

Buying vs. Renting - Which Costs You Less?

It's the age-old question in real estate when you're trying to find your next home - buy or rent?  Many people have a preconceived notion of which is best for them.  But over the years that I've been working with my real estate clients in the Phoenix area, I've noticed that sometimes it's not such an easy decision.

Moving? Phoenix is One of the Top 10 Places to Be!

According to CNN Money, Phoenix is among the top 10 cities to move to in 2014.  It makes sense, especially right now.  This winter has been hitting most of the country so hard.  But while everyone else has been getting record breaking cold temperatures and snow fall, we're enjoying highs in the high 70's to low 80's! 

To see the full list and slide show of cities that CNN Money listed, click here.  And if you're thinking that a home in Phoenix sounds pretty good, click here to see what's currently available in the area. 

I think it's so great that CNN Money loves Phoenix almost as much as I do :)

Trying Something New!

So I'm not really what I would call a "techie" type.  In my business, I'm driven more by the relationship with the client and staying on top of market knowledge. 

But I keep hearing how blogging is a great way to share my knowledge with my clients, friends, and neighbors.  So here I am, trying something new!

Let's grow together.  I'll be writing about the Arcadia area in Phoenix, AZ.  That's where I live, work, and play.  Of course, I also work extensively in the Greater Phoenix area, so I'll be writing about the real estate market in Central Phoenix, Scottsdale, etc.

But I need your help!  After all, anytime someone starts something new it can be intimidating.  So help me out by letting me know what YOU want to know.  Curious about Arcadia area restaurants?  Looking for recommendations for Arcadia area professionals like dentists or doctors?  Want to know more about the real estate market?  What are your burning questions?  I want this to be a place that I address those for you!

So here we go - here's to our blogging adventure together!

All my best,
Shara