DC Ranch goes Hollywood! 

DC Ranch HGTV

“Lights, Camera, Action!”  The Hollywood spotlight hits our very own DC Ranch.  Tune in on Monday, July 15, for an all new episode of “House Hunters” featuring DC Ranch residents Blake and Sarah Tablak.  The Tablak’s welcome HGTV’s “House Hunters” into the DC Ranch neighborhood and highlight ideal living in Scottsdale, Arizona. 

Here’s the premiss!  Blake and Sarah are ready to call Scottsdale home and put down roots for their son after living in four states in the last three years.  Anyone who has ever delved into the real estate world looking for that perfect house understands there are certain criteria the ideal home must possess before you even consider putting in an offer.  The Tayblak’s are no different from the average couple visualizing their dream house when HGTVs “House Hunters” came knocking to help. 

Sarah and Blake have a laundry list of wants and needs that “House Hunters” must provide to seal the deal.  One top priority is having a large-sized house that can give the family some breathing room and space to grow.  Another must-have includes a sparkling pool in a large backyard for where their child can run and play.  Temperatures skyrocket into triple digits in the desert during the height of summer and a pool is an absolute necessity. 

The kitchen is the heart of the home and Sarah desires a modern kitchen with up to date features.  She has also requested the home be free of any pet dandruff from previous owners as the family is very allergic. 

Blake is demanding a large jetted tub, three-car garage and an extra room in the house that can be converted to an office.  They both want to have a park near their home to garner more play time for their child and possibly meet new life-long friends now that they have decided to stay put in Scottsdale.

The Scottsdale real estate market is highly competitive and locating the Tablak’s dreamhouse is going to be a challenge within a 600-thousand dollar budget.

DC Ranch wants to keep you and your family in the know.

DC Ranch Knows

TRAFFIC ALERT:

If you’re traveling along the Thompson Peak Parkway next weekend on Saturday July 20 and July 21, there will be major lane restrictions.  Both lanes of the Thompson Peak Parkway will be closed immediately north of Windgate Pass Drive Saturday for bike lane additions and median work.  For your convenience, please use Legacy Boulevard as a detour.

There will also be several intermittent lane closures taking place in all directions at Horseshoe Canyon Drive and Thompson Peak Parkway for sewer work.  This will occur between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday to July 26.

TREE TRIMMING:

The DC Ranch Association, in conjunction with the City of Scottsdale Solid Waste Department, are requesting residents to help keep the neighborhood safe and clean by “cutting trees back to at least a 15 foot canopy at the street so trucks can collect trash.”
For more information about the tree trimming ordinances, contact Solid Waste at 480-312-5600.

MIDWEEK MELTAWAY:

The Waldorf Astoria Spa at The Boulders is launching a summer special to welcome DC Ranch residents.  The Waldorf Astoria has hand-selected DC Ranch residents to participate in the “Midweek Meltaway” at an astronomically low price.  For only 99 bucks, a DC Ranch resident can luxuriate in a 50-minute Signature massage or unwind to a relaxing facial.

This one-of-a-kind special is available on any “Tuesday from July 23 until the end of August.  This spa special package is a full service benefit that encompasses the pool, the spa, fitness facilities and group exercise classes.

And that’s not all!  The Waldorf Astoria is going all out for its special guests and gifting them with a “Native Botanicals” gift bag.  The gift bag is filled with lots of delectable goodies beginning with bath soak and mister and body lotion.  DC Ranch residents are invited to relax and hang out at the pool and cafe-side, all the while enjoying the spa’s healthy cuisine.

The Grayhawk Community is joining forces with several Scottsdale businesses in an effort to raise money for Yarnell families.

Grayhawk Yarnell Fill The Boot

It’s been two weeks since tragedy struck the small town of Yarnell, Arizona where 19 wildland firefighters from the Granite Mountain Hotshots lost their lives while bravely fighting a forest fire.  

The Grayhawk Golf Club, in association with Isabella’s Kitchen and the Southwest Section PGA, have banded together to raise money for the community of Yarnell and the families of Granite Mountain Hotshots who lost their lives in a devastating forest fire.  Grayhawk launched the fundraising drive, ”Fill The Boot.”  

If you wish to donate, there are a number of places in the Scottsdale/Grayhawk where you will find “The BOOT!”  Just head to the Grayhawk Golf Shop, Phil’s Grill or Isabella’s Kitchen between July 15 and August 2. 

Isabella’s Kitchen is located at 8623 East Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85255.  Call for more information at
480-773-6356.

Phil’s Grill is located at 8620 East Thompson Peak Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ 85255.  Phone: 480-502-1700

Gainey Ranch Golf Club will be hosting a Yarnell Fire Golf Fundraiser as well.  The nine-hole charity event is planned for August 2,  at 4:30 p-m.  All money raised will be sent to the Arizona 100 Club and then be distributed to the families of the 19 fireman from the Granite Mountain Hot Shots Crew.  The Southwest Section PGA has agreed to match the first 25-thousand dollars  raised. Hope to see you there!

DC Ranch partners with several local groups to raise money for families of fallen firefighters.  

DC Ranch Spaghetti Fundraiser

The country is slowly beginning to heal after the devastating loss of 19 hotshot firefighters who tragically perished while battling the Yarnell Hill forest fire in Arizona June 30.  In honor of the brave Granite Mountain Hotshot firefighters and their families, north Scottsdale SASSI restaurant located in DC Ranch will be hosting a special spaghetti dinner on Tuesday July 23.

SASSI owner Kevin Walsh is dedicated to providing relief to the families of those courageous firefighters.  Walsh says quote, “As our community experiences a devastating blow through the loss of the 19 firefighters who gave their lives protecting us, we wanted to rally our community to help their loved ones.”  Walsh goes on to say quote, “SASSI’s Granite Mountain Hotshot Dinner is an uplifting way to honor and support the Yarnell fallen firefighters and their families and to connect and strengthen our Arizona community.” 

SASSI Executive Chef Chris Nicosia says it’s more than spaghetti!  Nicosia says they are preparing a mouth-watering three-course meal that includes an Insalata Misticanza with local organic greens and vegetables in a balsamic vinaigrette, imported Italian spaghetti with tomato sauce, and the choice of SASSI signature meatballs or house made Italian sausage.  And to top it off, you’ll delight in gelato or sorbet for dessert.  

The cost is 25 dollars per person.  That price does not include alcoholic beverages, sales tax, or a service charge of 20 percent.

20801 N 90th Place, Unit 153, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 (MLS # 4945879)

Vacant on LOckbox- unfurnished -No steps

Property Type(s): Apartment Style/Flat, Residential

Last Updated	6/26/2013	Tract	Dc Ranch
Year Built	2000	Community	Dc Ranch
Garage Spaces	2.0	County	Maricopa
Total Parking	2	Walk Score ®	28

Schools

Additional Details

Features

Location

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

(view all details for MLS #4945879)

Data provided by
See more information on Scottsdale schools from Education.com

• 85254 {25}
• 85260 {14}
• 85257 {10}
• 85251 {10}
• 85255 {8}
• 85259 {6}
• 85258 {4}
• 85250 {4}
• 85256 {4}
• 85266 {3}
• 85253 {3}
• 85271 {2}
• 85331 {1}
• 85262 {1}

85271 Schools in Scottsdale, AZ

2 85271 Schools found in the area.

• Integrity Education Centre
  Phone: (480) 731-4829
  7425 East Culver St, Scottsdale, AZ85271
• The Marion Burton School
  Phone: (480) 945-3302
  Po Box 3828, Scottsdale, AZ85271

85258 Schools in Scottsdale, AZ

4 85258 Schools found in the area.

• Cochise Elementary School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  9451 North 84TH St, Scottsdale, AZ85258
• Laguna Elementary School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  10475 East Lakeview Dr, Scottsdale, AZ85258
• International School Of Arizona
  Phone: (480) 874-2326
  9128 E San Salvador Dr, Scottsdale, AZ85258
• Children's Choice Learning Center at Scottsdale Shea Childcare Center
  Phone: (480) 323-4620
  10028 North 92nd Street, Scottsdale, AZ85258

85251 Schools in Scottsdale, AZ

10 85251 Schools found in the area.

• Arcadia Neighborhood Learning Center
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  4330 North 62ND St, Scottsdale, AZ85251
• Pima Elementary School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  8330 East Osborn Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85251
• Navajo Elementary School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  4525 North Granite Reef, Scottsdale, AZ85251
• Howard S Gray Education Program
  Phone: (480) 941-7558
  7575 E Earll Dr, Scottsdale, AZ85251
• First Impressions Preschool
  Phone: (480) 941-4094
  3110 N Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85251
• Scottsdale Umc Cooperative Preschool & Kdgn
  Phone: (480) 946-0570
  4140 N Miller Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85251
• Our Lady Of Perpetual Help School
  Phone: (480) 874-3720
  3801 N Miller Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85251
• Little Kings & Queens
  Phone:
  4136 N 82nd St, Scottsdale, AZ85251
• Ville De Marie Academy
  Phone:
  6535 E Osborn Rd # 404, Scottsdale, AZ85251
• AZ 2020 Online Academy
  Phone:
  7303 East Earl Dr, Scottsdale, AZ85251

85257 Schools in Scottsdale, AZ

10 85257 Schools found in the area.

• Tonalea Elementary School
  Phone: (480) 484-3600
  6801 East Oak St, Scottsdale, AZ85257
• Hohokam Elementary School
  Phone: (480) 484-1800
  8451 East Oak St, Scottsdale, AZ85257
• Yavapai Elementary School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  701 North Miller Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85257
• Supai Middle School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  6720 East Continental, Scottsdale, AZ85257
• Coronado High School
  Phone: (480) 484-6800
  7501 East Virginia Ave, Scottsdale, AZ85257
• Scottsdale Horizons Charter School
  Phone: (480) 990-7223
  7425 East Culver Street, Scottsdale, AZ85257
• Evit - Scottsdale Vocational Center
  Phone: (602) 990-4361
  2507 North 74TH St, Scottsdale, AZ85257
• Sierra Vista Academy
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  7501 East Oak St, Scottsdale, AZ85257
• St Daniel The Prophet School
  Phone: (480) 949-8034
  1030 N Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85257
• New Way Learning Academy
  Phone: (480) 946-9112
  1300 N 77th St, Scottsdale, AZ85257

85250 Schools in Scottsdale, AZ

4 85250 Schools found in the area.

• Pueblo Elementary School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  6320 North 82ND St, Scottsdale, AZ85250
• Mohave Middle School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  5520 North 86TH St, Scottsdale, AZ85250
• Saguaro High School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  6250 North 82ND St, Scottsdale, AZ85250
• St Maria Goretti Preschool
  Phone: (480) 948-3606
  6261 N Granite Reef Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85250

85254 Schools in Scottsdale, AZ

25 85254 Schools found in the area.

• Sequoya Elementary School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  11808 North 64TH St, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Cocopah Middle School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  6615 East Cholla St, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• North Ranch Elementary School
  Phone: (602) 449-6400
  16406 North 61ST Place, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Copper Canyon Elementary School
  Phone: (602) 449-7200
  17650 North 54TH St, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Desert Shadows Elementary School
  Phone: (602) 449-6900
  5902 East Sweetwater, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Liberty Elementary School
  Phone: (602) 449-6200
  5125 East Marilyn Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Sandpiper Elementary School
  Phone: (602) 449-6300
  6724 East Hearn Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Desert Springs Elementary School
  Phone: (602) 449-7000
  6010 East Acoma Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Desert Shadows Middle School
  Phone: (602) 449-6800
  5858 East Sweetwater, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Sunrise Middle School
  Phone: (602) 449-6100
  4960 East Acoma Dr, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Horizon High School
  Phone: (602) 449-6000
  5601 East Greenway Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Montessori Day Public Schools Chartered - Scottsdale
  Phone: (480) 596-7922
  6239 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Freedom Academy
  Phone: (602) 424-0771
  15014 N 56TH, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Stars Prep Academy - Scottsdale, Inc.
  Phone: (602) 393-6500
  5334 E. Thunderbird Rd., Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Devereux
  Phone: (480) 889-0572
  6436 E Sweetwater Ave, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Pope John Xxiii Catholic School Community
  Phone: (480) 905-0939
  16235 N 60th St, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Arizona International Academy
  Phone: (480) 948-3419
  12430 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Rainbow Montessori School - Voltaire
  Phone: (480) 998-0024
  6402 E Voltaire Ave, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Blessed Sacrament Preschool & Kindergarten
  Phone: (480) 998-9466
  11300 N 64th St, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• The King David School
  Phone: (480) 991-4333
  12753 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Scottsdale Child Care & Learning Center-kierland
  Phone: (480) 368-1711
  6440 E Greenway Pkwy, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Chaparral Christian Preschool & Kindergarten
  Phone: (480) 991-6440
  6451 E Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• West-Mec - Horizon High School
  Phone: (623) 873-1860
  5601 East Greenway Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Sage Academy
  Phone: (623) 583-0113
  5334 East Thunderbird Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85254
• Freedom Academy
  Phone: (602) 424-0771
  15014 North 56TH, Scottsdale, AZ85254

85260 Schools in Scottsdale, AZ

14 85260 Schools found in the area.

• Zuni Elementary School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  9181 East Redfield Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85260
• Aztec Elementary School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  13636 North 100TH St, Scottsdale, AZ85260
• Cheyenne Traditional Elementary School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  13636 North 100TH St, Scottsdale, AZ85260
• Sonoran Sky Elementary School
  Phone: (602) 449-6500
  12990 North 75TH St, Scottsdale, AZ85260
• Casy Country Day School #1
  Phone: (480) 951-3190
  7214 East Jenan Dr, Scottsdale, AZ85260
• Casy Country Day School #2
  Phone: (480) 661-0401
  9575 East Larkspur Dr, Scottsdale, AZ85260
• Thunderbird Adventist Academy
  Phone: (480) 948-3300
  7410 E Sutton Dr, Scottsdale, AZ85260
• Notre Dame Preparatory
  Phone: (480) 634-8200
  9701 E Bell Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85260
• Camelback Desert School
  Phone: (480) 451-3130
  9606 E Kalil Dr, Scottsdale, AZ85260
• Thunderbird Christian Elementary School
  Phone: (480) 991-6705
  7440 E Sutton Dr, Scottsdale, AZ85260
• Shepherd Of The Desert Lutheran School
  Phone: (480) 860-1188
  9590 E Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ85260
• Great Heart Academies - Scottsdale Prep
  Phone: (480) 776-1970
  7496 East Tierra Buena Lane, Scottsdale, AZ85260
• Arts Academy at Scottsdale
  Phone: (602) 437-3927
  7214 East Jenan Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85260
• Gateway Academy
  Phone:
  7655 E Gelding Dr Ste A3, Scottsdale, AZ85260

85255 Schools in Scottsdale, AZ

8 85255 Schools found in the area.

• Desert Canyon Middle School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  10203 East McDowell Mtn. Ranch, Scottsdale, AZ85255
• Desert Canyon Elementary School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  10203 East McDowell Mountain R, Scottsdale, AZ85255
• Grayhawk Elementary School
  Phone: (602) 449-6600
  7525 East Grayhawk Dr, Scottsdale, AZ85255
• Copper Ridge Middle School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  10101 East Thompson Peak Parkw, Scottsdale, AZ85255
• Copper Ridge Elementary School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  10101 East Thompson Peak Parkw, Scottsdale, AZ85255
• Pinnacle Peak Elementary School
  Phone: (602) 449-6700
  7690 East Williams Dr, Scottsdale, AZ85255
• El Dorado Private School
  Phone: (480) 502-6878
  20624 N 76th St, Scottsdale, AZ85255
• Copper Ridge Math and Science Academy
  Phone: (480) 484-1500
  10101 East Thompson Peak Parkw, Scottsdale, AZ85255

85259 Schools in Scottsdale, AZ

6 85259 Schools found in the area.

• Mountainside Middle School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  11256 North 128TH St, Scottsdale, AZ85259
• Desert Mountain High School
  Phone: (480) 484-7000
  12575 East Via Linda, Scottsdale, AZ85259
• Anasazi Elementary School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  12121 North 124TH St, Scottsdale, AZ85259
• Mission Montessori Academy
  Phone: (480) 860-4330
  12990 East Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ85259
• Basis Scottsdale School
  Phone: (480) 451-7500
  11440 North 136TH St, Scottsdale, AZ85259
• Mission Montessori On The Desert
  Phone: (480) 860-4330
  12990 E Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ85259

85253 Schools in Scottsdale, AZ

3 85253 Schools found in the area.

• Chaparral High School
  Phone: (480) 484-6100
  6935 East Gold Dust, Scottsdale, AZ85253
• Montessori Academy
  Phone: (480) 945-1121
  6050 North Invergordon, Scottsdale, AZ85253
• Kachina Country Day School - North Campus
  Phone: (602) 393-6500
  10460 North 56TH St, Scottsdale, AZ85253

85266 Schools in Scottsdale, AZ

3 85266 Schools found in the area.

• Black Mountain Elementary School
  Phone: (480) 575-2021
  33606 North 60TH St, Scottsdale, AZ85266
• Foothills Academy
  Phone: (480) 488-5583
  7191 East Ashler Hills Dr, Scottsdale, AZ85266
• Freedom Academy North
  Phone: (602) 424-0771
  28700 North Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85266

85262 Schools in Scottsdale, AZ

1 85262 Schools found in the area.

• Desert Sun Elementary School
  Phone: (480) 575-2021
  27880 North 64TH St, Scottsdale, AZ85262

85256 Schools in Scottsdale, AZ

4 85256 Schools found in the area.

• Salt River High School
  Phone: (480) 362-2000
  4827 North Country Club, Scottsdale, AZ85256
• Salt River Elementary School
  Phone: (480) 850-2900
  10000 East McDowell Road, Scottsdale, AZ85256
• Salt River Elementary School
  Phone: (480) 362-2400
  10000 East McDowell Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85256
• Salt River Accelerated Learning Academy
  Phone: (480) 362-2130
  10000 East McDowell Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85256

85331 Schools in Scottsdale, AZ

1 85331 Schools found in the area.

• Montage Academy
  Phone: (480) 488-0215
  33955 North Cave Creek Rd, Scottsdale, AZ85331

So you live in DC Ranch or Grayhawk or are thinking about buying a home there, you may be interested in the quality of drinking water.

We have the answers for you.  It’s the Scottsdale Annual Water Quality Report and it’s available to anyone living in DC Ranch, Grayhawk or any Scottsdale community.

DC Ranch & Grayhawk Water Quality

City of Scottsdale is required by the federal government to an annual report to the public.

Here is the link to the report.

Scottsdale Annual Water Quality Report

If you would like  a paper copy of this informative report, please call 480-312-5355 and one will be mailed to you.

If you are interested in purchasing a home in DC Ranch or Grayhawk, Contact Diane Brennan at 602.620.2277

The “Boomerang Buyer” hits Scottsdale Real Estate!

Boomerang Buyer Scottsdale

Boomerang Buyers are driving the housing market in DC Ranch, Grayhawk and Silverleaf.  A few years back when the housing bubble burst and crushed the dreams of the American homeowners, financial experts exclaimed it would take several years to recover.  If you lost your DC Ranch home to foreclosure or short sale, it was guesstimated to take about seven years before you could even fathom an attempt to qualify for a mortgage to buy a home again.  

Today, those same financial experts are scratching their heads as home buyers are bouncing back early from their catastrophic home foreclosures.   These home-buyers are quote, “boomerang buyers” who were lost to the market for years after defaulting on their last mortgage.  After only a three-year absence, the boomerang buyers have seen a surge in the housing market and have now rebounded in huge numbers.

A report released from the national housing analysts predicts one in every five homes sold in Phoenix will be a boomerang buyer.  

Boomerang buyers have experienced rising rents and fluctuating finances in the past several years, working diligently to rebuild their credit.  They now want back in the game of real estate since the economy has become a bit more stable.   National Real Estate Analyst John Burns says quote, “foreclosed homeowners who are now renting are in a panic.”  Burns says housing rates are beginning to rise, as well as interest rates, and it’s the prime time to buy now.

There is a downside the boomerang buyer must endure to purchase a home.  Generally, lenders will demand an extremely large down payment and decent credit check.  If you borrow from the Federal Housing Administration are insisting on a three-year wait for a new mortgage loan after a foreclosure.  Fannie Mae on the other hand is requesting the borrower have 20 percent down of the purchase price and 620 credit score at least. 

The “Red, White and Blue” is flying high for those living in DC Ranch, Grayhawk or North Scottsdale.

July 4th Scottsdale

Show your spirit this July 4th and head to The Independence Day Music Festival.  The festival is lighting the night sky on July 3 at Salt River Fields.  The Academy of Country Music’s new artist of the year, Brantley Gilbert, has been given the honor of headlining this year’s event.  Tyler Farr and LoCash Cowboys are also on hand to perform.  Fireworks top off the night immediately following convert.  The venue requests you bring blankets only and no chairs.

DC Ranch living offers a plethora of activities for its residents, especially for women. 

DC Ranch Women

Women have become the backbone of this country through hard work and sheer determination.  If you or your family are in search of new adventures and facilitating new friendships among the industrial women in the neighborhood, DC Ranch is the place to call home. 

“DC Ranch Women” is a bustling and brilliant group of women who gather for the integral purpose of enhancing the DC Ranch community.  The residents who have joined “DC Ranch Women” come from all walks of life and bond through a myriad of interesting backgrounds.  

“DC Ranch Women” gather monthly for fun-filled activities, such as long lunches, cultural discussions and half-price, one dollar you call it happy hours just to name a few.  that are organized by members of the group in cooperation with our very own DC Ranch Community Council.  These meetings typically encourage networking among women who want to promote their business or other products, services and ideas.

This month, “DC Ranch Women” will be meeting for happy hour at Market Street Kitchen on Market Street in Scottsdale on Thursday, July 11 at 5:00 p-m.  Spend two hours or more discussing your exciting business plans for the future or promote some service or idea.  Bounce those ideas off women who want to see you succeed and make all your dreams come true.  

Living in the DC Ranch Community is just like having your family close to home.  

DC Ranch Games

In today’s society, it’s not unusual to live in a neighborhood and be clueless as to your surroundings.  Many people go about their daily lives in anonymity without ever questioning whether their next door neighbor has a name, career or even a hobby. 

If you’re looking for more than a passing nod from the guy next door, DC Ranch is where you want to live the rest of your days.  Being a member of DC Ranch Country Club is the closest thing to having your family welcoming you home every day.

The Country Club at DC Ranch wants to bring the entire community together.  Weekly games, such as Mahjong and Bridge are a favorite among the Country Club set in DC Ranch.  It’s not only an opportunity to experience new joys and develop life-long friends, it’s also a chance to give back to the neighborhood. 

Country Club resident Denise Kelly is a fan of all the activities the community has to offer.  Kelly thrives on the DC Ranch life.  She says quote, “everyone knows everyone and we’re like a great big community.” 

Eileen Miller has been an active DC Ranch resident for 14 years.  Miller cares deeply about her neighbors and the lives they all lead.  In fact, Miller was just elected to the Neighborhood Voting Member (NVM).  She says quote, ”We share traditions like holidays here with the other families.”  Miller and her husband Bill recently took up residence just a couple blocks within the community to the Longhorn neighborhood.   

The Millers are prime examples of what two dedicated members of a close-nit community can achieve when given the opportunities.  The first organization set up to raise money for local charities was ”Heartstrings.”  Many in DC Ranch became active volunteers for the beloved Heartstrings.  The group also raised thousands of dollars for organizations like Ryan House and HopeKids.

DC Ranch is home to a rich and fulfilling life.

DC Ranch goes Hollywood! 

DC Ranch HGTV

“Lights, Camera, Action!”  The Hollywood spotlight hits our very own DC Ranch.  Tune in on Monday, July 15, for an all new episode of “House Hunters” featuring DC Ranch residents Blake and Sarah Tablak.  The Tablak’s welcome HGTV’s “House Hunters” into the DC Ranch neighborhood and highlight ideal living in Scottsdale, Arizona. 

Here’s the premiss!  Blake and Sarah are ready to call Scottsdale home and put down roots for their son after living in four states in the last three years.  Anyone who has ever delved into the real estate world looking for that perfect house understands there are certain criteria the ideal home must possess before you even consider putting in an offer.  The Tayblak’s are no different from the average couple visualizing their dream house when HGTVs “House Hunters” came knocking to help. 

Sarah and Blake have a laundry list of wants and needs that “House Hunters” must provide to seal the deal.  One top priority is having a large-sized house that can give the family some breathing room and space to grow.  Another must-have includes a sparkling pool in a large backyard for where their child can run and play.  Temperatures skyrocket into triple digits in the desert during the height of summer and a pool is an absolute necessity. 

The kitchen is the heart of the home and Sarah desires a modern kitchen with up to date features.  She has also requested the home be free of any pet dandruff from previous owners as the family is very allergic. 

Blake is demanding a large jetted tub, three-car garage and an extra room in the house that can be converted to an office.  They both want to have a park near their home to garner more play time for their child and possibly meet new life-long friends now that they have decided to stay put in Scottsdale.

The Scottsdale real estate market is highly competitive and locating the Tablak’s dreamhouse is going to be a challenge within a 600-thousand dollar budget.

 Scottsdale secures a Silver for best place to live. 

Scottsdale Scores Silver

 It’s long been recognized as the number one city for retirees, but Scottsdale, Arizona has now been given the coveted number two spot for families as well.

Finance website, NerdWallet.com, released a new report claiming Scottsdale, which houses DC Ranch, Grayhawk and Silverleaf communities, as the second best place to live in Arizona.  ”NerdWallet.com” noted Scottsdale’s “gorgeous golf courses,” such as Grayhawk Golf Club, and The Country Club at DC Ranch.  The finance website also cites Scottsdale’s quote, “excellent school district, fantastic shopping” for residents who “enjoy the city’s abundance of upscale restaurants, nightlife, art galleries and luxury shopping.” 

Mom’s and Dad’s can share a sigh of relief too as Scottsdale was also named one of the safest places to live.  There were several components that were considered when naming best places to live.  NerdWallet.com centered their study on life affordability, income, neighborhood growth and public schools.  In fact, ArcadiaHigh School in Scottsdale received top accolades from Arizona.

There were 64 communities in Arizona under the microscope.  Shockingly, the city of Buckeye came in third.  The town of Peoria, Chandler, Sierra Vista, Lake Havasu City, Gilbert, Prescott and Sahuarita near Tucson.  Final scores were compiled through median home values, monthly homeowner costs, and income ranges between the years of 1999 and 2011.  NerdWallet.com also received data from GreatSchools.org to base certain findings on Arizona schools academic performance.

If you are interested in the latest findings, the report is in the July 23 issue of NerdWallet.com

 Women of DC Ranch unite! 

Being a woman in today’s society is a bit easier if you live in DC Ranch.  Become an empowered woman and join the DC Ranch Women on Thursday, August 8.   

This is an organization that focuses on social connections and facilitates ideas from woman of all backgrounds.  It’s also a great way to participate in your community and get to know your neighbors of DC Ranch.

This is a monthly activity where group members discuss their community, how to improve it and also collaborate with the DC Ranch Community Council.  This month, the women are meeting at Armitage on Market Street for happy hour between 5 p-m and 7-pm.  What better way to discuss exciting ideas and ventures than with your girls at happy hour?

DC Ranch girls night out not only includes happy hours, but also luncheons and field trips.  It is important to note that these gatherings are not meant as place to quote, “solicit business or promote services and/or products.”

DC Ranch names champions in infamous golf tournament, Inferno.  

DC Ranch Inferno Golf

That’s some gene pool!  Brothers took home top honors in the 2013 Inferno Golf Tournament in DC Ranch.  Congrats to members Gordon Jakel and his brother Andrew Jakel for withstanding Scottsdale, Arizona’s infernal heat to play a championship game of golf! 

The Inferno Golf Tournament for men took place last weekend on July 27th.  It’s quickly become Scottsdale’s premiere  tournament for those who can brave the sweltering sun for a friendly game of golf.  With temperatures skyrocketing to triple digit numbers, some private clubs close their doors due to heat.  This is not the case with The Country Club at DC Ranch.  In fact, The Country Club at DC Ranch offers special rates and incentives like Summer Camp or Taco Tuesdays at the Pool. 

 According to Director of Golf, Dick Hyland, “Give a member a reason to use their Club during the summer, and they will.”

The men had their shot and now it’s time for the women to show off their swings.  The Club is set to host the Ladies in the “Scorcher” Golf Tournament in late August.

The Scottsdale Unified School District is welcoming back students from DC Ranch and Grayhawk communities.

DC Ranch Back To School Tips

It’s time to break open that package of number two pencils, crack open a book and set your alarm!  Kids are heading back to school for those living in the Scottsdale Unified School District.  This includes DC Ranch and Grayhawk communities. 

We all know the three greatest reasons to love school – June, July and August!  Summer vacation is coming to a bittersweet close and the Scottsdale Unified School District wants to ensure a smooth transition from summer fun to academic achievement for parents and students.

SLEEP!

Students have undoubtedly been staying up to all hours of the night and sleeping til noon during summer vacation and waking up to an alarm is going to be difficult.  The best tip to offer in this situation is setting a proper bedtime and sticking to it every night on school nights.  A bedtime routine is key to a successful day at school for students. Plus, caffeine should be avoided at night.

RIDING THE BUS!

Following the rules for those children riding the bus could mean the difference between life and death.  It’s extremely paramount for students to wait patiently on the sidewalk for the bus to arrive.  Do not play in the street or walk out in traffic while waiting for the bus.  For safety purposes, children should walk at least ten feet away from the front of the bus so the driver can see anyone passing in front of the vehicle.   All loose items like books or snacks should be placed inside a backpack or bag.

WALKING OR RIDING BIKE TO SCHOOL!

Stranger-Danger never takes a vacation and is always lurking in alleyways and behind cars waiting for the opportunity to pounce on a student walking alone.  Always walk to school with a friend and pay attention to your surroundings.  Never take a ride from a stranger.  Parents might want to remind their kids that grown-ups never need help from a child to look for a lost puppy.

If you’re walking or riding your bike to school, wear something bright that is easy to see.  Always follow traffic lights and street signs.  Never cross against a red light.

DRIVING TO SCHOOL!

Warning! Teens with shiny new driver’s licenses are driving to and from school.  No matter how tempting, DO NOT TEXT and drive.  Nothing is that important to lose a life over before being safely parked at your destination with the engine stopped and turned off.

If you’re a student who lives in DC Ranch, sign up for the Back-To-School Bash this Friday at Desert Camp Community Center.

Live in DC Ranch and stay fit!

DC Ranch Stroller Barre

It’s true!  DC Ranch living is the ultimate neighborhood to reside in for mothers who want to get in tip-top shape.  Stroller Barre is all the rage among new mother’s sweating it out to lose that extra baby weight.  Are you tired of climbing a stair-stepper to nowhere or walking a treadmill while standing still?  Stroller Barre is the latest in cutting edge work-outs that combines Pilates and ballet specifically designed for postpartum women.   

Let’s face it, pregnancy wreaks havoc on a woman’s body.  The aching back, swollen feet and leg pain are just a few of the physical demands mother’s experience while pregnant.  To offset balance issues while carrying a baby, a woman’s hamstrings and back slowly lose strength over nine months to compensate for stretching muscles, hunched posture and excessive spinal curves.  Once the baby is born, the average woman experiences a weak or tight tummy and languid chest muscles.

Stroller Barre is the latest fitness craze that gives a woman a lean dancer’s body by targeting those lackluster muscles and strengthening them.  This exercise program focuses on strengthening and lengthening the entire body using an assortment of cross training equipment.  The activity offers varied levels of safe, small and controlled movements that burn fat and transform your body.  And bonus, you get to bring your baby to the workout.  Amber Nash, events and program coordinator, paved the way for Stroller Barre by introducing the program to DC Ranch residents.  Nash says quote, “This gives us the opportunity to provide a healthy exercise opportunity right here at The Homestead Community Center.”

There is no excuse to miss this class!  It’s a one hour class that is free to DC Ranch residents.  If you don’t have a child, but are interested in this body-mind workout, you are more than welcome to join.  

The first class begins Monday, September 9 at The Homestead Community Center between 10:30 a-m and 11:30 a-m.  For more information, contact the Community Council at 480-585-1641.

Mystery abounds in DC Ranch for treasure hunt enthusiasts! 

DC Ranch Treasure Hunt

“X” marks the spot!  Residents of DC Ranch have uncovered a novel idea on how best to celebrate Neighborhood Day next month.  The DC Ranch Community Council has set up a scavenger hunt where one ‘mystery’ clue will be divulged once a week for a month.  Unleash your inner Sherlock Holmes, take out your maps and compasses and score a grand prize. 

Beginning Monday, August 26, a clue will be unveiled through the weekly email blast.  Sign up for “This Week on the Ranch” and you will receive a telling clue that will disclose a hot lead that is guaranteed to send you on a fun and wild goose chase through your neighborhood. 

Once you expose the first location, just take a clear picture of that clue and bring it to a designated team at Desert Camp Community Center where you will be given a special token.  There will be a total of four secret locations (one each week), for a chance to win four tokens.  The council requests that one token be limited to one family for each clue.   

On Neighborhood Day, September 21, residents must exchange their winning tokens in exchange for keys.  One gifted sleuth will be awarded a “golden key” that opens the grand prize.   “It’s elementary my dear Watson,” search for a total of four clues.  For more information about the treasure hunt, contact the Community Council at 480-342-7178.

Timeline/Dates of Clues Below:

Clue #1:   The week of Aug. 26-Sept.1
Clue #2:   The week of Sept. 2-8
Clue #3:   The week of Sept. 9-15
Clue #4:   The week of Sept. 16-22

It’s a mad dash for DC Ranch and Grayhawk residents to join Scottsdale’s “Racin’ at the Basin!” 

Racin’ at the Basin

It’s the last leg in the City of Scottsdale’s Racin’ at the Basin multiple series run.  The Scottsdale Sports Complex is hosting the third and final 5K run on Saturday, August 24 at 8:30 p-m. 

Lace up your running shoes and snatch a neighbor lounging on a lawn chair for some fun.  Walk or run, you can enjoy the scenic McDowell Mountains as your make your way through the course.   

The Scottsdale Sports Complex will provide chip-timing equipment that tracks your two-loop run over the challenging course.  It only costs 15-dollars to participate if you sign up 48 hours in advance.  If you wait to sign up on race day, the fee goes up to 20-dollars per person. day.   

Register online at ScottsdaleAZ.gov or by mail in.

DC Ranch, Grayhawk and Silverleaf housing market keeps on booming.  

Interest Rates Up

A new study released by the W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University reports the average price for a single-family home increased more than 26 percent.  For example, if a home cost 150-thousand dollars, the price just went up over this past year to 190-thousand dollars.

This study also claims those soaring interest rates aren’t effecting the housing boom in the Phoenix-area market.  According to the study, one reason for the climb in pricing is there are less homes on the market, which causes multiple bids on one property to skyrocket. 

Your luxury market, such as the high-end Scottsdale homes located in DC Ranch and Grayhawk, is making some serious headway, with sales topping at record levels than any other summer in the last six years.

Mike Orr, director of the Center for Real Estate Theory and Practice at the W. P. Carey School of Business penned the report.  Orr says quote, “access to finance at the high-end of the market has improved recently with more lenders offering jumbo loans.”  Orr also says, ”along with good returns from the stock market, this has strengthened a recovery in the luxury market, where sales volumes were back to 2007 levels in June.”

Construction of new homes is slow and behind the mark, which is another reason for the uptick in prices. 
Last year, analysts predicted 17-thousand construction permits to be issued this year, but only 12-thousand-500 were issued.  

Orr reports in his study that “Current new-home sales rates are less than a third of what would normally be needed to keep up with the current population growth in the area.”   

Maricopa County homes and condos acquired by investors decreased about eight percent.  But, on a positive note, the area is still seeing a huge flow of all-cash home purchases.  Nearly half of the Maricopa County property transactions under 150-thousand dollars were all-cash deals this June.

Orr says rising interest rates may have an effect on demand.   According to Orr, “Rising rates have certainly reduced the motivation to refinance existing loans, but they have also sped up purchases by some buyers who want to lock in prices and rates.  Still, other buyers will stop to reconsider their options, likely causing a pause in new contract signings in July and August, but I expect normal activity to resume in October.”

If you’re living in a Scottsdale community like DC Ranch or Grayhawk, you’re a winner! 

Google Names Scottsdale eCity Winner

The key to a successful company these days is now rooted in technological advances and the digital age.  Jumping online, social media and twitter have become a major breakthrough to success for new and upcoming businesses.   

Google, the go-to page for sourcing web pages, information and images, has set out to pay tribute to the online business community. 

Google has honored the city of Scottsdale with the prestigious 2013 eCity Award.  The eCity Award is bestowed upon an exceptional company that shows particular strength in the online business community.  One city from every state is chosen for this prestigious recognition every year. 

Google says quote, “The businesses in these communities are embracing the web to find new customers, connect with existing clients and fuel their local economies.  Scottsdale joins the ranks of America’s leading cities in the digital economy.”

The independent research firm Ipsos partnered with Google in judging the online capabilities of small businesses across all 50 states.  Several factors were considered in naming the winners.  Google and Ipsos scrutinized the company make-up, use of a blog, social networking and whether the website was user-friendly.  The goal of any online business is to boost the local economy by providing all the necessary tools to keep existing clients and welcome new clients.  

Google singled out Scottsdale as “joining the ranks of America’s leading cities in the digital economy,” claiming the city ”exhibited strong engagement and potential for growth within the digital economy.”