Cave Creek, Arizona

Cave Creek, Arizona

John A Sposato

Cave Creek, Arizona is a charming town located in Maricopa County, just north of Phoenix. Known for its rugged beauty, Western heritage, and vibrant arts scene, Cave Creek offers a unique blend of natural landscapes, recreational opportunities, and a lively downtown area. Let's explore some of the highlights of Cave Creek, including its beautiful landscape, properties, hiking trails, shopping, and amenities.

1.Landscape and Natural Beauty:

Cave Creek is nestled in the Sonoran Desert foothills, surrounded by stunning desert landscapes and rugged mountain vistas. The town's proximity to the Tonto National Forest and the Cave Creek Regional Park allows residents and visitors to explore a diverse range of flora, fauna, and outdoor activities. You'll find picturesque saguaro cacti, rolling desert hills, and scenic sunsets that make for breathtaking views.

- Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area:

This expansive conservation area offers multiple trails, including the Dragonfly Loop and the Maricopa Trail. You can explore diverse desert landscapes, ancient petroglyphs, and scenic vistas.

2.Properties:

Cave Creek offers a variety of real estate options, including spacious desert estates, luxury homes, ranch-style properties, and charming southwestern-style houses. Many properties in the area feature large lots, stunning desert views, and a sense of privacy. Whether you're looking for a cozy desert retreat or a sprawling estate, Cave Creek has options to suit various tastes and preferences.

-.Cave Creek Regional Park:

This park features over 11 miles of trails, ranging from easy to challenging. The Go John Trail and the Overton Trail are popular choices, offering panoramic views and encounters with local wildlife.

3.Hiking Trails:

For outdoor enthusiasts, Cave Creek is a haven with numerous hiking trails that showcase the area's natural beauty. Here are a few popular trails:


-Black Mountain Trail:

A challenging but rewarding hike, the Black Mountain Trail leads to the summit of Black Mountain. From the top, you can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding desert and the town below.

4.Shopping and Amenities:

Cave Creek has a vibrant downtown area with an array of unique shops, boutiques, and art galleries. You can explore the town's Western heritage through its Western-themed stores, cowboy outfitters, and Native American art shops. Additionally, there are various restaurants, cafes, and bars where you can savor delicious Southwestern cuisine and relax after a day of exploration.

The town also provides essential amenities such as grocery stores, medical facilities, schools, and recreational centers to cater to the needs of its residents.

5. Events and Community:

Cave Creek has a close-knit community and hosts several events throughout the year, showcasing the town's rich cultural heritage. Events like the Cave Creek Balloon Festival, Fiesta Days Rodeo, and various art festivals bring locals and visitors together to celebrate and enjoy the town's lively atmosphere.

In summary, Cave Creek, Arizona offers a picturesque desert landscape, a range of beautiful properties, and a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you're seeking breathtaking natural beauty, a vibrant arts scene, or a peaceful desert retreat, Cave Creek has something to offer for everyone.

Carefree, Arizona

Carefree, Arizona

by John A Sposato

Carefree, Arizona is a charming town located in Maricopa County, just north of Scottsdale. Known for its beautiful desert landscapes and relaxed atmosphere, Carefree offers a unique blend of natural beauty, luxurious architecture, and proximity to various attractions. Let's explore the wonderful architecture, houses, and the surrounding areas, including the Boulder resorts, El Pedregal, and downtown Cave Creek.

Architecture and Houses:

Carefree is renowned for its stunning architecture and houses that harmonize with the surrounding desert landscape. The town embraces a Southwestern style, characterized by adobe-inspired designs, earthy tones, and an integration of indoor and outdoor living spaces. Many homes in Carefree feature flat roofs, clean lines, large windows, and open floor plans, allowing residents to enjoy breathtaking views of the Sonoran Desert.

You'll find a mix of architectural styles in Carefree, ranging from contemporary and modern designs to traditional Santa Fe and territorial-inspired homes. The town takes pride in its unique and upscale real estate offerings, including custom-built luxury residences, sprawling estates, and gated communities. The houses often incorporate elements like natural stone, wood beams, and expansive patios, creating an inviting and sophisticated atmosphere.

Proximity to Boulder Resorts:

Carefree is in close proximity to several renowned resorts in the nearby town of Scottsdale, including the Boulder resorts. The Boulders Resort & Spa, located just south of Carefree, is a world-class luxury resort known for its breathtaking natural surroundings and exceptional amenities. The resort features stunning architecture that seamlessly blends with the desert landscape, offering a serene and luxurious retreat for visitors.

Guests at the Boulders Resort can enjoy top-notch accommodations, spa services, golf courses, and various outdoor activities. The resort's casitas and villas offer a range of upscale amenities, including private pools, fireplaces, and panoramic views of the surrounding desert and mountains. The architecture of the resort embraces the desert aesthetic, with adobe-style buildings, natural stone accents, and expansive windows that showcase the stunning vistas.

El Pedregal:

El Pedregal, also known as El Pedregal, is an upscale outdoor shopping center located in the heart of Carefree. It features a distinctive Southwestern architecture that complements the town's ambiance. El Pedregal showcases an elegant blend of traditional and contemporary design elements, with stucco exteriors, arched doorways, and vibrant landscaping. The center offers a variety of high-end boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and a wine bar, providing a unique shopping and dining experience for visitors and residents alike.

Downtown Cave Creek:

Downtown Cave Creek is a neighboring community to Carefree, known for its Old West charm and vibrant atmosphere. Just a short drive away, it offers a lively mix of Western-themed architecture, eclectic shops, galleries, and popular dining establishments. The architecture in downtown Cave Creek reflects its Western heritage, with rustic storefronts, wooden facades, and a rustic ambiance that evokes the spirit of the Old West. Visitors can explore the town's galleries, antique shops, and enjoy live music and entertainment in the local saloons and restaurants.

Overall, Carefree, Arizona offers a blend of luxurious architecture, beautiful houses, and a serene desert setting. Its proximity to the Boulder resorts, L Pedregal, and downtown Cave Creek adds to the appeal, providing residents and visitors with a wealth of upscale amenities, shopping options, and entertainment opportunities while maintaining a peaceful and relaxed lifestyle in the stunning Sonoran Deser

Desert Ridge Marketplace

Desert Ridge Marketplace

by John A Sposato

Desert Ridge is a prominent master-planned community located in Phoenix, Arizona. It offers a blend of residential areas, shopping districts, golf courses, resorts, and entertainment options, making it a desirable place to live and visit. Let's explore the key features of Desert Ridge:

1. Housing:

Desert Ridge offers a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and luxury apartments. The community features beautifully landscaped neighborhoods with well-maintained properties, providing residents with a comfortable and picturesque living environment.

2. Shopping:

Desert Ridge is home to the Desert Ridge Marketplace, a sprawling open-air shopping center. It offers a diverse range of retail stores, boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Shoppers can explore numerous popular brands, dine at various restaurants, catch a movie, or enjoy live performances in this vibrant retail destination.

3 Golf:

The Wildfire Golf Club, located within Desert Ridge, is a premier golf destination. It features two championship golf courses, the Palmer Signature Course and the Faldo Championship Course. Golf enthusiasts can indulge in a world-class golfing experience amidst stunning desert landscapes.

4. Resorts:

Desert Ridge is known for its luxurious resorts that provide exceptional accommodations and amenities. The JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa is a highly acclaimed resort offering elegant rooms, multiple swimming pools, a spa, and several dining options. It also boasts a renowned Wildfire Golf Club, mentioned earlier.

5. Nightlife:

The Desert Ridge area offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of entertainment options. The High Street, located adjacent to Desert Ridge Marketplace, features numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy live music, dance, and socialize in this energetic atmosphere.

6. Mayo Clinic:

In close proximity to Desert Ridge, you'll find the Mayo Clinic Hospital, a renowned medical institution known for its exceptional healthcare services. Mayo Clinic provides specialized medical treatments and has a strong focus on research and education.

7. American Express Campuses:

Desert Ridge is also home to the American Express regional campuses. American Express, a globally recognized financial services company, has multiple office buildings in the area. These campuses offer employment opportunities and contribute to the economic growth of the community.

Overall, Desert Ridge offers a well-rounded living experience with its attractive housing options, diverse shopping destinations, premier golf courses, luxurious resorts, vibrant nightlife, and the presence of notable institutions like the Mayo Clinic and American Express. It's a community that combines modern amenities, natural beauty, and a convenient location to create a desirable place to live, work, and play.

Queen Creek's Schnepf Farm

Discover the Charm of Queen Creek's Schnepf Farm: A Delightful Escape for All

by Sharon Coffini

Nestled in the scenic landscape of Queen Creek, Arizona, Schnepf Farm offers a captivating retreat for nature enthusiasts, families, and those seeking an authentic farm experience. With its rich history, picturesque surroundings, and a wide array of activities, Schnepf Farm has become a cherished destination that combines agritourism with old-fashioned fun. In this blog, we will delve into the wonders of Queen Creek's Schnepf Farm and highlight the reasons why it continues to captivate the hearts of visitors.

A Historical Haven:

Schnepf Farm, established in 1941, has a remarkable legacy as a family-owned farm. It started as a small-scale peach orchard and has since blossomed into a sprawling agricultural paradise. The farm has remained in the Schnepf family for four generations, creating a sense of heritage and authenticity that is cherished by both locals and tourists alike.

Delight in Nature's Bounty:

The farm's primary highlight is its bountiful orchards, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in a fruitful experience. Depending on the season, visitors can pick their own peaches, apricots, plums, apples, pumpkins and more. The joy of plucking a ripe fruit straight from the tree is an experience that embodies the farm's connection to nature and the land.

Charming Festivals and Events:

Schnepf Farm is renowned for its captivating festivals and events, which celebrate the changing seasons and provide an opportunity for wholesome entertainment. The Peach Festival, for instance, is a summer extravaganza where visitors can indulge in mouthwatering peach-based treats, enjoy live music, partake in hayrides, and explore an array of arts and crafts. Other events like the Pumpkin and Chili Party in the Fall and the Christmas at Schnepf Farms extravaganza complete with artificial snow falling, train rides & lights galore are some of the favorite events throughout the year! 

Farm-to-Table Culinary Delights:

At Schnepf Farm, farm-to-table cuisine takes center stage. The farm's renowned restaurant, The Farmhouse, presents a delectable menu crafted from locally sourced ingredients, including those grown on-site. From hearty breakfasts to delectable lunches, visitors can savor the flavors of freshly harvested produce while enjoying the rustic charm of the countryside.

Unforgettable Family Fun:

A visit to Schnepf Farm is an immersive adventure for the whole family. Children can explore the petting zoo, interact with friendly animals, take a ride on the charming carousel or several other rides, or navigate their way through the farm's themed corn mazes. The farm's nostalgic charm and family-friendly activities make it an ideal destination for creating lasting memories.

A Picturesque Wedding Venue:

Schnepf Farm's rustic elegance and idyllic surroundings also make it a sought-after wedding venue. The farm offers enchanting outdoor spaces, including a picturesque rose garden, a beautifully restored barn, and open fields that provide a stunning backdrop for exchanging vows. Couples seeking a romantic and unique wedding experience find Schnepf Farm to be a dream location.

Conclusion:
Queen Creek's Schnepf Farm is a true gem that seamlessly blends history, nature, and family-oriented fun. From picking ripe fruit in the orchards to immersing oneself in festive celebrations, Schnepf Farm offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're seeking an authentic farm experience, a memorable family outing, or a charming wedding venue, this enchanting farm has something to offer everyone. Plan your visit and let Schnepf Farm's timeless appeal weave its magic on you.

Queen Creek Olive Mill

The Unveiling Charms of the Queen Creek Olive Mill

by Sharon Coffini

Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Queen Creek, Arizona, lies a hidden gem that offers an exceptional sensory experience for food enthusiasts and nature lovers alike—the Queen Creek Olive Mill. As you step onto the grounds of this family-owned and operated olive farm and mill, you'll be immersed in a world of rich history, delightful flavors, and a deep appreciation for the olive tree. Join us as we embark on a journey to explore the wonders of the Queen Creek Olive Mill and discover why it has become a must-visit destination for both locals and travelers.

A Legacy of Olives:

The Queen Creek Olive Mill boasts a captivating history rooted in the passion and dedication of its founders, the Rea family. Inspired by a love for high-quality olive oil, the Reas planted their first olive trees in the early 1990s and established the mill in 2005. What started as a small-scale venture has now flourished into the largest family-owned and operated olive mill in the United States.

Farm-to-Table Experience:

Visiting the Queen Creek Olive Mill is more than just a typical excursion—it's an immersive farm-to-table experience. Stroll through the lush orchards where over 16 varieties of olive trees thrive under the Arizona sun. The mill's knowledgeable staff is always ready to share insights into olive cultivation, harvesting, and the art of olive oil production. Witnessing the journey from tree to bottle will deepen your appreciation for this ancient fruit.

Tantalizing Tastings:

Prepare your taste buds for a remarkable culinary adventure at the Queen Creek Olive Mill. Their tasting bar offers an array of extra virgin olive oils, infused oils, and unique flavors that will leave you spoiled for choice. Sample oils infused with aromatic herbs, zesty citrus, or fiery chili peppers, each providing a distinct and unforgettable taste experience. Be sure to pair your oils with delectable balsamic vinegars, tapenades, and other gourmet treats available on-site.

Delicious Dining:

The Queen Creek Olive Mill doesn't stop at providing delectable olive oils. The on-site eatery, the Olive Mill Bistro, presents a menu that highlights the mill's products in a variety of mouthwatering dishes. Savor farm-fresh salads, wood-fired pizzas, and sandwiches, all infused with the flavors of their award-winning olive oils and local ingredients. Indulge in the relaxing atmosphere, enjoy a glass of wine, and relish the rustic charm of this culinary haven.

Community and Sustainability:

The Queen Creek Olive Mill is deeply committed to sustainable practices and fostering a strong sense of community. They prioritize organic farming methods, water conservation, and recycling to minimize their environmental impact. Furthermore, they actively engage with local farmers, artisans, and suppliers, creating a vibrant network that supports the local economy.

Conclusion:

A visit to the Queen Creek Olive Mill is an enchanting journey into the world of olives, where tradition, innovation, and delicious flavors blend harmoniously. From the captivating olive orchards to the tantalizing tastings and mouth watering dining experiences, every aspect of the mill invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and appreciate the true essence of nature's bounty. So, whether you're a food aficionado, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique destination, the Queen Creek Olive Mill promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the humble olive.

Gilbert Regional Park

Exploring the Wonders of Gilbert Regional Park: A Perfect Escape for Nature Enthusiasts

by Sharon Coffini

Welcome to Gilbert Regional Park, a captivating oasis nestled in the heart of Gilbert, Arizona. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse recreational activities, and family-friendly amenities, this park offers a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers of all ages. In this blog post, we will take you on a virtual tour of Gilbert Regional Park, highlighting its key features and attractions that make it a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.

1. A Natural Wonderland:

Gilbert Regional Park spans over 272 acres, providing ample space for an array of natural wonders. As you explore the park, you'll be greeted by lush greenery, a tranquil lake, and scenic views that create a serene atmosphere. The well-maintained trails winding through the park offer a fantastic opportunity for a leisurely stroll or a refreshing jog, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature's beauty.

2. Playtime Galore:

One of the park's main attractions is its extensive playground area. With multiple themed play zones, including a splash pad, climbing structures, and slides, children can unleash their imaginations and engage in hours of active play. The playground is designed with safety in mind, ensuring a fun and secure experience for kids of all ages.

3. Water Fun for Everyone:

Gilbert Regional Park recently announced an impressive aquatic wonderland that is slated to open in 2025 that will keep visitors cool and entertained during the hot summer months. The park will feature a state-of-the-art surf water park for professional surfers along with areas dedicated to surf instructions for beginners. There will be a lazy river, exhilarating water slides, a kiddie pool and adults only pools as well as shopping and dining promising endless hours of fun for the whole family.

4. Fitness and Recreation:

Fitness enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy at Gilbert Regional Park. The park provides well-maintained sports courts for tennis and pickleball and fields for basketball, soccer, volleyball, and more. Additionally, there are dedicated areas for yoga, outdoor fitness classes, and group activities, ensuring that visitors can stay active and engage in their favorite recreational pursuits.

5. Picnic and Relaxation Areas:

If you're in search of a tranquil spot for a picnic or a place to unwind and soak up the sun, Gilbert Regional Park has you covered. With numerous shaded ramadas, picnic tables, and barbecue grills, you can gather with family and friends for a delightful outdoor meal. The park also offers spacious grassy areas for leisurely activities, sunbathing, or simply enjoying a good book amidst the picturesque surroundings.

6. Amphitheater: 

Gilbert Regional Park has an outdoor amphitheater and plays hosts to various concerts including Boots in the Park throughout the year. 

7. Future Phases:

There are several phases still to come as the Ocotillo Bridge project gets underway opening up Ocotillo Road and expanding it for better traffic flow. A dog park with it's own doggy splash park, and a state of the art Skate Park are just two of the amenities slated for future phases.  

Conclusion:
Gilbert Regional Park offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, thrilling attractions, and recreational amenities that make it a true gem in the heart of Gilbert, Arizona. Whether you're seeking an adventure-filled day with your family or a peaceful retreat into nature, this park has something for everyone. Plan your visit to Gilbert Regional Park today and experience the wonders it has to offer. Get ready to create lasting memories in this exceptional outdoor destination.

Another sign of cooling housing market

Majority of Valley municipalities issued fewer homebuilder permits

More than 60% of the municipalities tracked by the Home Builders Association of Arizona have issued fewer single-family homebuilder permits this year through April than the same period last year — another sign the Valley's housing market is cooling.

Overall, the 21 municipalities tracked by HBACA issued 11,967 single-family homebuilder permits so far this year through April, up 2% from 11,794 during the same period in 2021. Of those 21 municipalities, 13 of them issued fewer permits year to date through April.

The drop in April permits was a precursor to what we are seeing play out today, said Steve Hensley, senior manager of Zonda Advisory.

"Demand has pulled back as rising inflation, rising mortgage interest rates and economic uncertainty is settling in," Hensley said. "The drop in permit activity is likely partly a function of builders pulling back on their speculative inventory building in anticipation to slowing demand. Market conditions are shifting as well as homebuyer strategy."

Jim Daniel, president of RL Brown Housing Reports, said this type of permit activity is to be expected.

"I think we're going to end up pretty flat for the year — around 30,000 permits, which I think is still a really good housing market," he said.

Potential homebuyers are nervous about signing contracts for a home when they don't know what their interest rates are going to be, Daniel said. 

Largest vacant land parcel in Paradise Valley hits market at $55M

Source: Phoenix Business Journal | Angela Gonzales

The largest parcel of vacant land in Paradise Valley has been listed for sale at $55 million. The price has jumped more than 800% since it was last sold in 1997 for $6 million in cash.

The 27-acre parcel sits north of the Paradise Valley Country Club with views of the nearby Mummy Mountain.

Joan Levinson, Realtor with Realty One Group who listed the property, said developers have been eying that parcel over the past 50 years, but the owners had no intention of selling it for development.

The parcel is across the street from the home of John Teets, former CEO of Dial Corp. and Greyhound Corp., who died in August 2011 at the age of 77.

"He didn't want anybody to live across the street from him," said Levinson, who arranged the sale of the parcel to Teets in 1997. "He didn't want to block his view. He didn't have any intentions to build on it at that time, either. That's why it stayed undeveloped. The two owners of the property in the last 50 years did not want to develop it."

She remembers when that $6 million cash deal closed. The Teets were at the White House for an event when she called the family to notify them of the closing.

"They were very excited and they toasted with champagne glasses right after I told them," Levinson said. "Later, John invited the relatives of the woman who had owned the property out to lunch with me at the Dial Corp. when they came to town."

The 27-acre parcel is zoned R-43, which means it could have as many as 21 1-acre lots, or 13 2-acre lots or six 4-acre lots, she said.

"Or it could be a fabulous estate for somebody from out of state to keep the whole thing," Levinson said. "The Teets family still lives across the street."

Interest from developers, homebuilders, homeowners

The parcel is within walking distance of the Paradise Valley Country Club, nestled between Mummy Mountain and the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. It is north of Lincoln Drive, east of Tatum Boulevard, west of Scottsdale Road and south of Doubletree Ranch Road.

The land also is non-hillside, making it easier to develop, Levinson said.

Levinson said she listed the property a few weeks ago and is getting a variety of interest from developers, homebuilders and potential homeowners.

Rod Cullum, founder of Cullum Homes, a Scottsdale-based custom homebuilder, said he has watched that parcel for many years.

"It will make a great neighborhood of estate lots when developed," he said. "We have a different view on the current market value and cost to develop than the sellers. I do feel that this parcel is a wonderful opportunity."

The Teets family has been the caretaker of this property for a long time, Levinson said.

"We're trying to figure out who would be the best caretaker and do the best job on the property," she said.

Land is scarce in Paradise Valley, especially in the more expensive areas of the town, she said.

Known for its large lot sizes and as a place many celebrities and professional athletes call home, the Paradise Valley ZIP code 85253 is the wealthiest ZIP code in the Valley.

The exclusive area is desirable for one simple reason, said luxury real estate agent Scott Grigg: "Quality of life."

For a deeper dive into what's driving demand for luxury houses to new heights in Paradise Valley, click on this week's cover story.