Looking for an Affordable Home in Marana, AZ? There's a small community under construction as you head out to the end of Tangerine Farms Road towards NW Marana.  It's about 5 minutes west of I-10 in a quiet, cotton-field-surrounded community. Contemporary-style stucco frame homes with tile roofs nestle amongst by scenic greenbelts and sweeping vistas of nearby mountain ranges. This neighborhood is not bank owned or Short Sale, but the sale is subject to Privada Homes LLC (Seller) acquiring title to the property and a release from Town of Marana Assurance Agreement.  They currently have four floor plans to choose from with 3 and 4 bedrooms, ranging from 1780 to 2424 square feet.  Prices start at $139,000 and end at $164,900. If you are interested in a beautiful home at a great price per ... 10/10/2010

RODEO! Benefit Bullriding for Whitney Alderson & Raychell OchoaA short time ago I penned a post about the Marana Cowboys and Heritage Arena Rodeo Grounds just off I-10 in Marana, AZ.Tonight, a very special fundraising event is taking place from 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. There will be a  , the girls who were injured in a trailer explosion at the Sonoita Rodeo.   Here is more information:  http://www.kvoa.com/news/horse-trailer-explodes-at-sonoita-rodeo/On September 6, 2010, there was a propane gas leak in a horse trailer where the girls were staying.  The horse trailer had sleeping quarters. One of the girls had lit a scented candle and the trailer exploded. Both girls were sent to ICU. Tonight the gates open at 6, with general admission seating.  There is a $5 admission for adults, 12 and ... 10/08/2010

To Mound or Not to MoundOur "builder" landscapes in and around Gladden Farms are pretty boring. Our yards are rock (ok...crushed stone) and a basic slope away from the house. Then the builders endeavored to put several small bushes in too confining of a space so that when they grew, the yard would be overcome. Top that with some kind of fast growing tree filled with thorns. Then, times that by 1000 or so and you have Gladden Farms, Marana, AZ.Yes, that's "spec" desert landscaping.We are luckier than many of our neighbors. We don't have the spreading, creeping, all-consuming ground cover that will even grow up walls and posts. And don't get me started on what that looks like when the irrigation system is faulty...Anyway, for some time, I've been wanting to put my mark on our generic rock... 10/07/2010

Interested In a Great Real Estate Purchase?  Try Gladden Farms, Marana, AZ This past weekend I completed my quarterly visit in Marana, AZ in the area of Gladden Farms, a master - planned community about 5 minutes west of I-10, on Tangerine Farms Road.  I take a day to go through 25-30 properties and make notes about the availabilities and market statistics. Gladden Farms was hard hit by the recession, in part because of the FEMA flood plain ruling that has since been overturned. Currently, there are 60 homes in Active (46) , Active Contingent(9), and Active Capa(5) status.  Forty four of these are distressed sales. Of the homes that sold in the past three months, average price per square foot was $81.03.  However, of the 60 available listings right now, the ASKING price averages $85.01,... 09/28/2010

8 Characteristics of an Energy Efficient House In Tucson, we have terms like "TEP" Guaranteed Home and Energy Star Qualified Homes. The newest homes have built-in computers that communicate with the household energy systems. What characteristics are involved that cause a energy efficient home to use so much less energy than others? 1.  Solar panels.  Solar energy systems create hot water, hot air, and cool air as needed.  The panels heat water, and also generate electricity to heat water.  Over-sized water heaters can store "free thermal energy" as well.  Statistics say that a typical family of our might spend $170 a year to heat their water for showers, baths, etc. 2.  Air conditioner and heat pump.   Solar panels lie flat, and there's space between the roof and the solar panels, allow... 09/18/2010

The Weather is Cooler and the Walkin' Is FineNow that the mornings are back to a balmy 70 degrees, our thoughts here in Tucson, AZ turn to outdoor activities once again.  The fitness trails are full, runners are out, bikers are everywhere!  For the next 8 months, outside is where it's at!Coming up on Saturday, September 26, the Marana Broncos are sponsoring a 5K Run or Walk - and what a perfect way to get back into your fall fitness AND enjoy the great outdoors at the same time.  The run/walk registration begins at 7 a.m. and will be commencing at 9:00 a.m. from the Continental Ranch Community Park. (Skate park on Continental Drive)  A pre-workout session is also planned before the "race" to help everyone limber up!It's a family day with music, food, jumping toys, vendors - lots of stuf... 09/17/2010

Gladden Farms, Marana, AZ - Market Statistics Since July 2010 - Homes for Sale This is a market capsule of homes on the market since July 8, 2010 and an update from my July Market Report.  109 homes are listed on MLS59 active homes for sale in Gladden Farms, Marana AZ (available)11 of those active listings are new construction by Richmond American and Lennar3 have Active Capa contracts on them, willing to accept a better offer14 have accepted contracts (Active Contingent)7 are pending close of escrowBuilders in Gladden Farms, Marana, AZ include Lennar, Miramonte, Hillcraft, Richmond American and Pulte.  Most of the homes were built starting in 2005 or later, so the homes are newerThe smallest home comes in at 1265 sq. feet and homes size upwards to a whopping 4,045 with five bedrooms. L... 09/03/2010

Look What's in Them Thar Hills!  The Preserve at Marana, AZ I was was on my way to have my car's oil changed the other day at, yep, you guessed it, Fletchers Tire and Auto, when I saw nearby rooftops of a community I hadn't yet explored with my camera.  I knew there has been quite a bit of new construction going on north of Tangerine Road, between Thornydale and Dove Mountain boulevard, so I took a little visit with my camera after the oil change was completed. I love the road north, named Camino de Oeste.  Camino de Oeste means "west road" in Spanish, but, north of Thornydale - it heads straight north! Oooh, gated community - nice for security and privacy. I love the entryway gardens and landscaping. Here's the New Homes Site for the local builder.  Just a reminder that home buyers sho... 08/28/2010

Now is the Time To Buy a New Home in Marana, AZ It's never been a better time to buy a new home in Marana, AZ or the surrounding Tucson metropolitan area including Oro Valley and Vail.  Below is a listing of the recent home sales in the zip code of 85653 in Marana, AZ.     Property Address Price Beds Baths Sq. Feet Year Built Sale Date 11862 W THOMAS ARRON DR $ 125,000 NA 2.0 1414 2006 06/10/2010 11320 W HARVESTER DR $ 140,000 NA 2.0 1589 2005 06/09/2010 11089 W MOTES DR $ 200,000 NA 2.0 3683 2005 06/08/2010 12964 N STEAMBOAT DR $ 127,500 NA 2.0 1414 2006 06/07/2010 11794 W FORDSON DR $ 161,055 NA 3.0 2289 2006 06/07/2010 11908 W FONTENELLE DR $ 123,000 NA 2.0 1265 2006 04/26/2010 5117 N SABI RD $ 85,000 NA 1.0 1454 2006 04/23/2010 11307 W COMBINE DR $ 130,000 NA 2.0 1589 2005 04/23/201... 08/26/2010

Skyranch is a lovely subdivision that blends into the desert vista located in Northwest Tucson.  It's just a little bit west of Oro Valley, southeast of Dove Mountain.  To find Skyranch, take Tangerine from Thornydale and go west.  Travel south on Camino De Manana and you'll see the signs. You can also find Skyranch by traveling west on Tangerine from Oracle, La Canada, or La Cholla Blvd. Just remember to turn south on Camino De Manana, just west of Thornydale. This private community nestles within over 500 acres of natural desert preserve.  The tranquility of the area, combined with stunning vistas and backdrops, serve to provide homeowners with a singular living experience.  Enjoy the Catalinas, Tucson, and Tortolita Mountains from your intimate home setting. Because of its location, ... 08/20/2010

In the words of Forrest Gump, "And that's all I have to say about that." 08/14/2010

Palisades At The Pines, Marana, AZ - Homes for Sale Golf anyone? Welcome to the Cortaro Community of Palisades at the Pines, Marana, AZ.  The homes overlook The Pines Golf Course, and provide stunning golf, mountain and sunset views. Residents enjoy easy access to shopping, restaurants and quick freeway access.  Downtown Tucson is barely 20 minutes away.  Post office, library, city parks, and more are just a few of the local amenities.  You can find the community just off the freeway at Cortaro Road and I-10.  Turn right at the first lighted intersection and you will find Palisades at the Pines. The residential area is a new construction community, with 3 and 4 bedroom homes in inventory, and Richmond American ready-to- build.  Remember that it is to your advantage to have a real estate... 08/09/2010

Moving to Tucson area? Homes for Sale in Marana, AZ Are you moving to Tucson area? Great Homes are for sale and have sold in Marana, AZ, in the past three months!  Marana is a lovely community adjacent to Tucson on the NW side. Find us bordering I-10 as your travel south to Tucson from Phoenix, AZ. Follow the links to discover more about some of the more well know subdivisions and communities of Marana, AZ: Continental Ranch Sunflower (An Active Adult Community) Continental Reserve Gladden Farms Rancho Marana and nearby Nicholas Homes San Lucas Dove Mountain and Tangerine Crossings! Currently, there are over 300 active homes for sale in Marana on the market.  These are single-family residences.  266 of these are under $1,000,000 and for the sake of comparables, I'll discuss those less t... 08/05/2010

I really, really, think this is a great, great name for a street! And it's in my community!! Looking for a wonderufl home in a beautiful neighborhood?  Do you have questions about Gladden Farms, Marana -- minutes from Tucson, AZ?  I call it my home, and I'd be happy to help you find your great, great place too!  :) Cara 07/26/2010

SALUTE to the VIPS! Volunteers In Police Service - Marana Yesterday I put over 100 miles on my car, driving a circle route from Marana, down I-10 to South Tucson, out Aho Way past Ryan Airport Field, and Up Sandario road in West Tucson back up to Continental Ranch in Marana.   Some of those miles are rustic, indeed, and cars passed were few and far between. In the last 2 miles of my circular route, just coming down through Continental Reserve, I heard that roaring, flopping sound associated with...a flat tire.  I was coming up to an intersection, and so I pulled over to take a look.  Front driver tire, going flat FAST.  On a side note, my car external temperature gauge was registering 113 degrees.   Simultaneously, a police officer pulled up to see why there was traffic behind me.  He "... 07/16/2010

Sales "Short" Owners - Outrageous Prices of Homes for Sale in Marana   I got a call today about some property and homes I haven't viewed in some time.  It's a subdivision not too far from where I live, and they started out with beautiful model homes and a few lots for sale. Unfortunately with the passing of time, the recession, the FEMA flood plain, the lack of local businesses, this area of town got hit pretty hard.  More than one builder went belly up. Meanwhile, the homes still sit, empty windows staring out through the overgrown brush and trees. I took a little walk through them today.  They are still BEAUTIFUL inside.  Lovely cabinetry, tons of shelves and storage and counters and built ins.  Window treatments, custom paint, gorgeous tile work and medallion entryways - lots and lot... 07/12/2010

Yup, I Reckon Cowboys Really Do Live in Tucson & Marana, AZ Cowboy Up! Rodeo Days doesn't just come once a year in February in the vicinity of Tucson, AZ.  The Marana Rodeo grounds, just 15 minutes north of Tucson along the freeway, features events on Fridays, Wednesdays, and other competitions throughout the month.  If you want to mingle with the Cowboys in Tucson, and Marana, pull out your best western shirt, your cowboy boots and your hat, and mosey on over to the grounds just off I-10 on the frontage road in Marana. This is a great place for youth enthusiasts, as the Marana Western Heritage Committee hosts a junior Rodeo January through April, on the fourth Saturday of each month.  There are equestrian events, roping, riding, barrel racing and more and prizes are even handed out!  I... 07/08/2010

Meet Me In Marana! If you live in Tucson, Oro Valley, Red Rock, or Marana, AZ, this might be for you! Looking for something to do in the middle of the week? Trying to shake off a nightly routine of summer re-runs? Gather up your running shoes, break out your sunglasses, bring some water, and join the neighbors at Crossroads Arizona Pavillions!  Michele Hill, community relations director from Boston's, The Gourmet Pizza Restaurant, has established the weekly event of "Meet Me At Boston's". Meet me at Boston's is a free weekly run/walk for 2.5 miles along the scenic Santa Cruz River.  It's aim is to help folks to "meet their neighbors and have a good ol' time". How cool is that?  The run/walk begain in April, and will continue through the summer.  Participation has been very strong, with ... 07/05/2010

Looking for a DEAL of a New Home in Continental Ranch, Marana, AZ?   Continental Ranch is a master planned community about 25 to 30 minutes from downtown Tucson, taking I-10. There are several subdivisions to choose from, including Continental Reserve and the active adult community of Sunflower.  The entire community is west of the freeway along the foothills of the Tucson Mountains and Coronado Forest. Residents enjoy many neighborhood parks, including two pools, baseball and soccer fields, and a skate park. The area is served by Marana School District. Nearby is the newer Crossroads Pavillioni retail area anchored by Kohl's and Walmart, as well as Tower Theaters and many great restaurants. Urgent care is close, as well as post office, library, and Crossroads at Silverbell Park.Most of... 06/29/2010

Looking for a DEAL of a Home in Gladden Farms, Marana AZ? Gladden Farms is a beautiful, growing, master-planned community. You can see photos in any of my Gladden Farms, Marana, AZ, A Pictorial Walk Along the Pathways Parts 1,2, or 3Currently, there are 11 REO/foreclosed homes on the market available, ranging in price from $132,000 for over 1500 sq. feet and three bedrooms - to a two story, 3 bedroom home for $202,500 that features over 2,700 sq. feet.Contact me if you'd like a list of available homes emailed to you today, or to set an appointment to discuss your next home purchase in Gladden Farms, Marana, AZ or surrounding community at www.SWDesertHomes.com. If you are unsure of your purchasing power, what monthly payments might be, or how to take advantage of today's low interest rat... 06/24/2010