Who Doesn’t love a County Fair?
There is something for everyone at the Northern Gila County Fair, Exhibits, Horse Show, Gymkhana, Livestock Auction, Mounted Shooting Contest and a Cornhole Tournament!
Plus lots more fun for the entire family.
September 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th
Thursday, 5pm – 9pm
Friday and Saturday 9am – 11pm
Sunday 12pm – 3pm
Indoor exhibits at Tonto Apache Gym Friday and Saturday 10 am – 6pm
Getting to know the Seller’s Market
You hear it everywhere you go these days, sometimes with a smug smile, sometimes with a resigned shrug, depending on which side of the transaction you are on, but we are definitely in the midst of a significant seller’s market.
What is a Seller’s Market, you might wonder. It arises in the real estate industry when demand for homes exceeds the supply available for purchase. The greater the gap between the two, the bigger a seller’s market exists. Since there are fewer homes on the market, sellers are clearly at the advantage.
When a seller’s market exists, homes sell faster, decisions on purchases happen much more quickly, lacking inventory can lead to bidding wars between potential buyers that can drive the price of the home above the listing price, sometimes far above.
Here is a checklist of things to know, no matter which side of the process you find yourself:
Tips for Buyers
Decide quickly! Get prepared for a loan ahead of house hunting to be assured that the money side of things is covered when you need it to make fast decisions.
Know you are at the disadvantage. A Seller’s Market is not a time to haggle on small things or ask the seller for outrageous concessions to be made. If you are able, a cash offer will always be more appealing to a seller, so they know they will not have to deal with the hassle of financing.
Patience is key! Go into the process knowing that losing out on properties is a real possibility that happens often. Do not allow yourself to become discouraged, frustrated, or be tempted to take it personally. Keep searching and the right property will come along.
Don’t Settle. The home is one of the largest investments a family makes. Be sure you get what you want, and have money built into your budget to pay a little more than you think you will to nab it when it comes along.
Tips for Sellers
Sellers are not completely off the hook in this situation, even though the odds lie in their favor. Sellers are competing with other sellers to attract the best buyers to purchase their property. It helps to understand how to increase a buyer’s interest in what you have to offer.
Keep it clean! An organized, tidy, clean smelling, and artfully presented house that is in good condition will be among the first snapped up by buyers.
Price fairly. If you take the direction of setting your asking price at or even slightly below fair market value, you will be more likely to attract more interest more quickly. Multiple interested buyers could lead to a bidding war which drives prices upward in your favor.
Consider offers carefully. Caution and attention to detail regarding your buyer’s financial and credit strength should be taken into consideration. Accepting an unrealistic offer from an unqualified buyer will just put you back at square one, wasting valuable time.
Ensure pre-approval. Lending institutions use extensive review of a buyer’s financial situation and verify worthiness in order to issue a pre-approval. On the other hand, pre-qualification is much more casually issued using just estimates of a buyer’s money situation.
Weigh out contingencies: Some offers include stipulations such as mortgage, home sale, appraisal, and inspection contingencies that enable buyers to back out of a sale if certain conditions aren’t met.
Whether you are in the process of buying or selling a home, it is essential to know where the market stands and how that effects your decisions in the process. Buyers will obviously have the advantage in a buyer’s market when properties flood in with fewer takers willing to compete for them. Sellers are primed for maximum benefit in this strong seller’s market, however.
No matter the conditions of the real estate market in your area, hiring a qualified real estate agent is the best way to navigate the housing market specific to your needs and get you what you need at the greatest advantage manageable. With a professional on your side, you will have a leg up on the competition, as the agent will have specific knowledge of the area and what you are up against.
It’s monsoon season once again in Arizona, and Rim Country sees more than its fair share of turbulent weather during these months. Living in a wildfire area means that this area is also prone to post-fire flash flooding during and immediately following heavy rains. Ensure your insurance coverage for your property and contents of your home are at adequate levels to make you whole, should such storm or flood damage affect your property.
Monsoon safety driving tips
· Expect the unexpected. Monsoons can literally eventuate from seemingly clear and cloudless skies in a matter of minutes. Always know that a storm is possible during monsoon season and understand how to safely drive in rainy conditions.
· When in doubt, wait it out! If you don’t have to travel during monsoon storms, postpone your trip. The less people on the road leads to overall safety for the community.
· When faced with low- or zero-visibility conditions, pull your vehicle off the road as far to the right as possible. Once visibility has cleared you can cautiously head out onto the roads again. It is also advisable to have headlights on during inclement weather including heavy rain, hail, and haboob style dust storms.
· Don’t risk crossing a flooded wash, even if it doesn’t look deep. It takes only a few inches of rushing water to completely sweep away a vehicle. Besides potential life-threatening consequences to yourself, you also risk the safety of any rescue personnel that may have to come to your aid. Not to mention having to foot the bill for such a rescue.
· Do not drive around “Road Closed” signs. EVER! Please respect closure signs and keep yourself and loved ones out of danger by respecting closure signs placed by trained authorities.
Tips to make your home ‘Monsoon Ready’
· Waterproofing is the way to go. Complete waterproofing sealant applied to roofing, exterior and interior walls goes a long way to act as a preventative measure to keep unwanted water out of your home during storm season. Leaks and seepage are one of the most common repair issues needing to be addressed post storm.
· Clear out the drains and rain gutters to give water flow the easiest possible path away from your property.
· Check electrical wirings and casings to make sure there is nothing exposed and everything is in working condition.
· Protect wooden furniture. Weatherproofing polish is a good way to coat wooden indoor or outdoor furniture to protect it from the monsoon elements.
· Ensure AC Maintenance: Summertime is by far the busiest season for HVAC professionals. Regular maintenance is the best way to avoid being stuck without vital cooling due to unavailable contractors to respond immediately during these hot and sticky months.
After the storms:
• Walk your property to make sure no major damage has been sustained by fallen vegetation, and if there is hail, inspect vehicles and outbuildings for damage.
• Drain any standing water and cover rain collection containers to prevent mosquito populations from forming on your property. Be sure your property is fitted with properly sized mosquito screens to protect your family from pests when inside your house. It is advisable to close all open windows and doors after sunset, which is a prime time for mosquito activity.
While monsoon weather in the Rim Country may be an inevitability, suffering from it doesn’t have to be. With these wise preventative and active measures in place, you will find the best way to keep your family and property safe during the rainy season.
Celebrating the History
Rory Huff, Realtor, ERA Young Realty
by Susan Campbell, Rim Country Regional Chamber of Commerce
Like most desirable areas, the Rim Country’s real estate market is HOT! Rim Country Realtors must be “crazy busy”, right? How does long-time REALTOR® Rory Huff at ERA Young Realty & Investment see it?
Rory’s credibility is solid after 20+ years as a Rim Country REALTOR®. His extensive knowledge of market conditions and impeccable customer service make him a go-to person for real estate questions.
Competition is keen for the few properties currently on the market and among the 500+ Realtors in the Payson area. Multiple offers, many over asking price, and back-up offers drive the boom in the Rim Country. The St. Louis Federal Reserve Bank reports median United States home prices for 2021 Quarter 1 at $347,500. Arizona Real Estate Notebook lists Arizona’s first quarter median home price at $360,000.
In case you hadn’t noticed, Rory advises, “California has discovered us…We are really affordable to California buyers.” A desire to move from cities and suburbs to rural areas make Payson and the Rim Country, the first choice for many homebuyers.
Can we meet the demand? Currently we are experiencing far more buyers than properties available for sale. There is still undeveloped land for new homes. The Town of Payson plans for a maximum population of 37,000. Rory doesn’t see Payson achieving quite that much, but we have the infrastructure needed to do it, including the C.C. Cragin project, guaranteeing a stable 100-year water supply. Few communities in the West can offer that precious resource.
Rim Country checks the boxes for the intangibles homebuyers want: “security, quality schools, services, medical access and proximity to a major metropolitan area”. Toss in “pine trees, views and elbow room” and it’s a prime target for relocation.
What about the challenge of affordable housing? Rory observes that “most towns just do lip service to affordable housing.” He believes the Town of Payson must participate in the affordable/entry level housing crisis that postpones or prevents the American dream of home ownership. Waiving fees and giving tax incentives are a start.
Now you know a fraction of what Rory knows about Rim Country’s real estate market. There’s even more to Rory Huff.
He served two terms on the Payson Schools Governing Board, bringing a new Julia Randall Elementary School and an upgraded Rim Country Middle School online through a bond issue. He has served on the TOP Parks and Recreation Board, Friends of Payson Parks and Recreation and Payson Schools Override Committee. He also coaches and referees youth sports.
It’s easy to see why Rory Huff is so successful. And if you intend to purchase a home, Rory says stick to the basics: “establish good credit, save money, live below your means”.
For most families, the purchase of a home is the most significant investment they make in their lifetime. When you are making that purchase, having your financial affairs in order is essential for securing the most advantageous position to qualify for the lowest rates available. To be sure you are in the most stable position possible, follow the 10 steps below to assure you are on the straight and narrow path to a successful home loan.
Your Ten Personal Steps for Purchasing a Home
1. You should not change jobs, become newly self-employed, or quit your job.
2. You should not buy a new vehicle. (You could end up living in it if financing falls through, should you choose to ignore this step!)
3. You should not use credit cards unnecessarily or in excess. You should not let current credit accounts fall delinquent.
4. You should definitely not think of spending the money set aside for closing costs.
5. You should not leave out any debts or liabilities from your loan application. (Be transparent.)
6. You should not buy furniture on credit before your home loan finalizes.
7. You should not make any inquiries on your credit. Now is not the time to apply for any other credit cards, loans, or application processes that will require a credit check.
8. You should not make large deposits without consulting your loan officer first. No transactions should be made in any amount out of the ordinary from your normal banking activity in deposits or purchases.
9. You should not change bank accounts.
10. You should not co-sign a loan for anyone. (Good advice always, but particularly during this season in the home buying process.)
Following these steps along with having all financial documentation located and sorted in an organized manner should have you on your way to a happy ending for your successful loan application. As always, if any assistance is needed, be sure to contact your real estate expert or mortgage representative. They are always available to help you through this exciting process.
Summertime is officially here, and unlike the restrictions of last year, this year families are free to seek out fun in public again. Rim Country is famous for our variety of entertaining events and an abundance of gorgeous nature to enjoy everything the season has on offer with the smiles and waves of small town hospitality accompanying it all. Here is a list of just a few of the attractions that can be enjoyed this summer in Rim Country.
Summer Concert Series
Saturday nights in Green Valley Park
June through July
7pm – 9pm
Payson Farmers Market
May 29 – September 18
Saturdays 8am – Noon
Sawmill Crossing Plaza
PetVet Veterinary Community Pet Clinic
Tractor Supply Company
510 E Hwy 260
Wed. June 2
4:30-6:30 PM
Monster Mudder
June 18-19
Payson Multi-Event Center
Monday Night Lights at the Event Center
https://paysonrimcountry.com/mondaynightlights/
Open Arena
April – October
Pine-Strawberry Arts and Crafts Guild
4th of July Arts & Crafts Festival
Downtown Pine – Hwy 87
July 3 & 4th
Payson Book Festival
Mazatzal Hotel & Casino
July 17th
9am-3:30 PM
Pine-Strawberry Arts and Crafts Guild
Labor Day Arts & Crafts Festival
Downtown Pine – Hwy 87
Sept. 4 & 5th
If your tastes veer more towards the outdoors, there are plenty of adventures to be had in our expansive natural woods, lakes, trails, and mountains. Check out these local websites for in depth coverage of campsites and amenities to find the perfect fit for your family under our gorgeous wild blue skies.
https://www.discovergilacounty.com/
https://paysonrimcountry.com/parks/
https://www.fs.usda.gov/tonto/
Above all, have fun and be safe in the Rim Country this summer! We are happy to welcome you back!
Keeping organized records straight from the outset of a new home acquisition is vital not only for peace of mind, it also makes financial transactions a breeze when everything is sorted, filed and at your fingertips. Start your record-keeping right when you buy your house so if or when you sell your home you’ll be prepared with the necessary paperwork. This will also come in handy for any refinancing or auditing needs that might come along in the interim. Below is a handy guide to how to organize your documents.
Create a home sale binder:
Having everything ready and in one location is a time and sanity saver.
Make sure that all homeowners know where the binder is kept.
Documents to store within the binder include:
o Closing Statement summarizing the transaction fees, credits and seller’s net profits
o Receipts for capital improvements.
o Any permits pulled for improvements
o Any permits pulled for renovations
o Warranties and service contracts
o Info regarding any unique features of your home
o Proof of any loans, mortgages and deeds in your name that have been paid off and recorded.
o Payoff statement or lien release for paid mortgage
What you will need if you sell your home for taxes and calculating capital gains:
• The closing statement
• Proof your home was your primary residence for at least two years
• 1099-S form from the IRS
• A1098 form showing your paid mortgage interest and any real estate taxes paid through escrow
• Receipts for any moving expenses.
How long to keep your records?
• Financial experts recommend you keep your records for 7 years after your home sale.
How to store your records?
• Scan to Cloud Storage that backs-up automatically and is password-protected
• Label your paperwork binder clearly and store in a safe place
• Photocopy any register receipts so they last longer.
• Most register receipts fade over time, a photocopy won’t (toss the originals.)
Taking a few short hours in the early days of home ownership to compile these essential documents into one easy to find and clearly labelled binder will save new homeowners hours of work and frustration in the long run over the life of living on the property. The value it brings is all but priceless.
300 East Tyler Parkway
The garden opened on March 6th for the 2021 season.
Payson Community Garden has April hours Monday-Friday from 3-6pm and Saturday from 8am-3pm
Founded in 2012 through an interfaith cooperation between churches, the garden has grown as a labor love, its goal to provide gardens at a low cost to the community, to encourage gardening, to teach gardening skills through classes that are open to the public and to provide fresh produce to the local food banks. A long list of individuals, organizations, and businesses have worked over the past nine years through the seasons to help maintain the garden on a day to day basis.
The garden hosts various in person and online gardening classes and webinars, offers plots of land for gardening, and gives garden tours. A seasonal Pumpkin Patch is offered each fall.
Visit the Payson Community Garden online by clicking the link below or follow their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/paysoncommunitygarden for current garden offerings.
www.paysoncommunitygardenaz.com
We are seeing an explosion of activity in the real estate world that began last year and has shown no sign of slowing down. Indeed, as the pandemic pushes on, impacting economies globally, we can surely anticipate continued growth in the market. This buyer’s market is a roller coaster that only goes up for the time being. It seems to be a perfect storm of reasons why home purchases will be continuing in the upward trend for the foreseeable future. Families are reevaluating what home needs mean for them in the world we now live in. The following are some of the factors impacting the upswing in the market.
Extra time at home: While always a refuge from the world, the space where we live has in the era of COVID-19 have become much more central in importance to almost everyone. Combining mandatory and voluntary quarantine periods, caution has dictated far more hours spent within the four walls of home than any other time in memorable history. With so much spent time, families often begin noticing where gaps exist in creature comforts. Home hunters are therefore on the lookout to fill these voids, seeking out the perfect fit for their needs and wants.
Record low interest rates: With interest rates at jaw dropping lows under 3%, sometimes getting close even to 2%, the financial pros of home buying are hard to dispute. While technically a seller’s market, the low interest rates currently abounding for home loans puts the ball squarely in the buyer’s court in the way of advantages.
Work from home culture: The pandemic has altered the work situation for many. Employment has shifted to accommodate a home based office setting in the interest of both safety and cost effectiveness for employees in regions spanning the nation. As such, expanded floor plans or modified layouts are higher on the hit list of “must haves” for house hunters in recent months to meet those new needs.
Outdoor space: Even as entertaining and social gathering slowly begins to trickle back into what was the norm prior to the pandemic, people are approaching their regained freedoms with an understandable abundance of caution. Time spent home also leads to the unfortunate side effect of cabin fever and an overwhelming urge to find space to get out in nature or simply stretch your legs. To make get-togethers more easily done with safety in mind, and to make home more of an oasis, home buyers are seeking out properties with bigger acreage and/or easy access to outdoor amenities that fit the bill.
Renovation avoidance: Quarantine time has been spent for some homeowners with a eye to renovation to make their particular wants and needs a reality. For others, ho
wever, such a large undertaking is simply an undesirable amount of effort. Many want the convenience of a turn-key experience, getting what they want without the hassle, time, or expense of professional or DIY remodel work. From a seller’s perspective, the strong seller’s market makes the usual practice of costly renovation work to attract buyers is by and large minimized, as the demand for properties becomes more and more frenzied.
Home ownership needs are changing and the market is doing an admirable job of keeping up with demands of what today’s homeowner is seeking. Now is certainly the right time for home ownership and an experienced real estate professional is ideal liaison to making the process straightforward and seamless. Contact our offices today to set up a consultation for how to make the necessary first steps in your home buying adventure. Our experts are ready to make the dream come true for your family.
With the world’s largest Ponderosa Pine forest and year round pristine weather in our backyard beckoning visitors and locals alike into the great outdoors, many find their recreation in the great wide beyond under the vast blue skies or twinkling stars when they are in Rim Country. Sometimes, however, people find themselves wanting amusement of the indoor variety. For those occasions, we have compiled a list of antiquing haunts for your treasure hunting pleasure.
Local Antique Stores
520 W. Main St, Payson
928-472-4323
800 E. Hwy 260, Payson
928-978-2464
3716 N. Prince Dr, Pine
928-476-4618
Moose Mountain Gifts & Antiques
6264 Hardscrabble Rd, Pine
928-476-3044
Somewhere in Time
503 W. Main St Ste C, Payson
928-474-1996
112 W. Wade Ln, Payson
928-472-7343
Local merchants are all well-versed in popular eateries and additional off-the-beaten-path hidden gems as well. Be sure to chat up our shop proprietors. You will find them all wells of knowledge.
We wish you all happy hunting, friends!
