What is the Kyrene Foundation and what does it do?

Mission of the Kyrene Foundation

The Kyrene Schools Community Foundation (KSCF) advances the mission and vision of the Kyrene School District.  The Kyrene school district, one of the top-rated school districts in Arizona.  This district incudes parts of Phoenix (Ahwatukee), Tempe and Chandler.  Click here for a map of the Kyrene School District

The Foundation’s mission is to remove barriers to learning so that all students can excel in school.  The Foundation serves families with students in the Kyrene School District in Maricopa County, Arizona.  The Kyrene school district includes parts of Phoenix (Ahwatukee), Chandler and Tempe.

People are often surprised that there are homeless families (and therefore children) in the Kyrene School District.  There is a further surprise when people learn children in our communities may be food deficient.  This is the official term for children not having enough food.  While the Kyrene school district is often considered to be in an affluent area.  However,  there is a  broad spectrum of families with needs.

Kyrene Family Resource Center (KFRC)

One of the largest initiatives of the Foundation is the Kyrene Family Resource Center (KFRC) is at Kyrene Los Niños Elementary school.  The KFRC is located at 1330 Dava Dr, Tempe, Az 85283. There, any family with children in the Kyrene school district in need of help may visit the Kyrene Family Resource Center.   There is no income requirements or proof of need required.

The KFRC provides services for families such as food, gently used clothing, hygiene items, and new school supplies. The current hours for the KFRC are: (hours may vary)  They can be reached at 480-541-1520.

The Kyrene Foundation provides direct support to Kyrene families in need through the following programs:

The annual Taste of Kyrene and Opportunity Drawing raise funds through an event featuring a gala evening at the Ahwatukee Foothills Country Club.  Tickets purchased provide entry to tasting stations for local food and various beverages.  Attendees stroll through the clubhouse and may participate in purchasing tickets for the Opportunity Drawing, a wine pull and may also bid on numerous silent auction baskets.  These baskets are donated by the Kyrene elementary and middle school PTOs, Kyrene Foundation board members and various vendors.   While mingling with friends at the beautiful Ahwatukee Foothills Country Club attendees enjoy the event and know they are supporting the Kyrene Foundation and in turn the families in the Kyrene School District.

At the Taste of Kyrene, the winner of the Opportunity Drawing is drawn.  For several months leading up to the Taste of Kyrene, the 25 Kyrene PTOs sell tickets for a great Disney or Sea World vacation.  Tickets are sold for $10, 00, with $5.00 donated to the PTO and $5.00 to the Kyrene Foundation.

 Free Shred-A-Thon

For several years, Shirley Coomer & Gregory Stainton of Keller Williams Realty have sponsored a Free Shred-A-Thon at Kyrene Monte Vista Elementary school in April and October.  While the event is free to the community, anyone bringing items to be shred is asked to donate one none perishable food item for each box or bag brought for shredding.  The food is donated to the Kyrene Family Resource Center.  In the Spring, the request is for canned meat, pasta, pasta sauce, dried and canned beans and canned fruit and vegetables.  For the October Shred -A-Thon, the public is asked to donate typical Thanksgiving food that is used for the Thanksgiving food boxes that the Kyrene Foundation provides for families in need.

Wishes Come True

Many families finding it difficult to meet basic food and clothing needs welcome the Kyrene Foundations Annual Wishes Come True event.  The event provides an opportunity for girls to attend and select a gently used semi-formal and spring dresses for 8th-grade promotion.  Girls also can select shoes and other accessories so they too can celebrate 8th-grade graduation dressed in a special outfit.

The Annual Golf Classic

The Annual Golf Classic held each June, more recently at the Wildhorse Golf course provides an opportunity for many in the community to enjoy gold while raising money to support the Kyrene Foundation.

Stuff the Bus

The Stuff the Bus event collects backpacks and school supplies to enable students to start the year will the right supplies to be successful in classes and to have all the same supplies as other students in their class.

One of the goals of the Kyrene Foundation is to remove barriers to learning.  When children come to class without the right supplies, they may get ridiculed by other students or suffer frustration at not having the tools they need to complete assignments.  Many organizations work to ensure Kyrene students have the backpacks and school supplies.

Thanksgiving food Box

In November, the Foundation donates a Thanksgiving food box with all the usual Thanksgiving fare for families that otherwise may not have a traditional Thanksgiving dinner.  Also included are frozen turkeys.  For Thanksgiving 2016, a store generously donated an apple pie for each family. The foundation typically serves 250 to 300 families at this event.

Winter Wonderland

The holidays can be a stressful time for any family.  However, it is especially so for those families struggling to meet their family’s basic needs.  The Winter Wonderland event provides an opportunity for families to select 2 new items for each child in the family for Christmas.  Families are escorted with a “personal shopper”.  They wander through a large room filled new toys, books, sporting equipment, books, games, puzzles, etc.  Once the items are selected, recipients can send their items to be gift wrapped while they enjoy beverages and cookies. As the items are dropped off for wrapping, parents or other caregivers are given raffle tickets for periodic drawings.  The drawings typically include new bicycles and turkeys throughout the day,

The Kyrene Foundation also provides many  programs and events in support of the teachers in the Kyrene School District with such programs as;

Teacher Mini-Grants – Kyrene teachers all invited to submit a request for up to $500 for a classroom specific project to enhance students’ educational experience.  These are granted twice a year.

Principle Mini-Grants – Principles can submit proposals for projects, up to $5000.  These typically support the entire elementary or middle school.

In 2015, the Foundation implemented a Principle mini-grant for up to $5000.  These grants are for proposals to enhance the educational experience for all students in their schools.

The Kyrene Foundation continues to look for new opportunities to serve the Kyrene School community.  This organization works in partnership with the Kyrene School District to identify needs within the community and opportunities to make a difference in the lives of the Kyrene students.

13 Things to do in Phoenix New Years Eve

There are many things to do in phoenix New Years Eve to ring in the new year.  With our great weather, there are many events held outdoors, and some include fireworks! You can enjoy New Years with family friendly events throughout the valley.  Here are a few of our favorites.

New Year’s Eve Block Party on Mill Avenue – Downtown Tempe  –  Mill Avenue District   –  S. Mill Ave & W 5th St Tempe, AZ

Come join friends and family at one of Tempe’s best New Years Eve parties that stretch along Mill Ave as streets are closed off any revelers stroll the area.  See the holiday lights,  enjoy the food trucks, games, music, entertainment, and dancing.   Don’t miss the fireworks this year sponsored by Four Peaks Brewing Company. The Fireworks will start at midnight from Tempe Butte (also known as “A” Mountain) and last about 15 minutes.

You may also enjoy 10 great East Valley Holiday Events

Coors Light® is partnering with Valley Metro and Uber to help residents and visitors ring in the New Year safely. In partnership with Crescent Crown Distributing, Coors Light Free Rides® will be available on all Valley Metro Rail and Bus routes Saturday, December 31, from 7 p.m. until the end of regular service.

New Years at the Phoenix Zoo, 455 N. Galvin Parkway, Phoenix

Where else can you ring in 2017 with 30 tons of snow, snowball targets, a countdown until a noon ball drop and toast with cider?   You will also enjoy dancing, live music, prizes and games, something for the whole family! 9 a.m-noon, Saturday, Dec. 31. Phoenix Zoo  Normal zoo admission prices

 USA’s Skateland Family Party  –   E. Southern Ave., Mesa, Az

Families can skate on New Year’s Eve with an admission that includes skate rental, pizza, a soft drink, a balloon drop and party favors.

Details: 4:30-7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 31. USA’s Skateland. Admission is $7.99. A family of four pages $22 and $5 per person after that.

Package at Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino

1. Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino, Chandler

   So many options!

   Dinner and drinks at Acacia Ballroom from 6:30 p.m. midnight. An “Evening with the Stars” is an exclusive dinner and dancing event. Reception with hosted premium bar, four-course dinner, dancing with the Groove Merchants and a midnight champagne toast.

   Live entertainment at:

   • Encore Lounge. From 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. The Rolling Cojones perform; from 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. Andrea & Gemini performs.
   • Classics With A Twist. From 8 p.m. – 2 a.m. Faith & Cooke performs.
   • Reflections Lounge. From 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. Notes from Neptune performs.
   • Ovations! Showroom. From 8 p.m.- 12:30 a.m. attend the party hosted by Fox 10’s Cory McCloskey with Mirage – Fleetwood Mac Tribute; Mick Adams & The Stones, a Rolling Stones Tribute, 34North with top 40’s Dance.

   DJ and Dancing at Chrome Nightclub from 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. DJ Medik will be playing music. Note:  bottle service will be available at an additional cost.

 Rockin’ R Ranch   –  6136 E Baseline Rd., Mesa

Celebrate the new year with this kid-friendly outing.  Dinner, entertainment and home by Midnight!  You will have a live performance of The Rockin’ R Wranglers. Enjoy an evening of cowboy fun with dinner and a show at Rockin’ R Ranch. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the show will start at 6:30 p.m.

New Year’s Eve at Topgolf  – Topgolf in locations in  Gilbert and Scottsdale

Just pay $225 per bay for up to six people or VIP $450, tax included.Bring in 2017 with a swing. A General Bay Reservation for up to six people includes unlimited play from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. and party favors. You can reserve a VIP Bay which is for up to six people for $450 from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. With the VIP package enjoy unlimited Topgolf play, New Year’s Eve Chef’s Choice Buffet, unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, one bottle of Chandon Rose (for guests over 21), New Year’s Eve party favors. Chef’s Choice Buffet will be served from 9:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Dessert will be served from 11 p.m. to Midnight.

Rawhide At Wild Horse Pass – 5700 N West Loop Rd, Chandler, Az

Decadence Music Festival

If you want an evening of music, great drinks and dining,  check out Rawhide’s exclusive Decadence Festival.  Many different seating and dining options.  You will want to party late into the New Year here!

Westgate Entertainment District, Glendale

New Year’s eve day is a great time to visit this entertainment district with ice skating and Fiesta Bowl activities.  Great fun for the whole family.

Westgate bars and restaurants will open as early as 9 a.m. on Dec. 31 to welcome Fiesta Bowl fans. Open daily from noon until 8 p.m. near the Skate Westgate ice rink, an immersive Facebook VR experience will be open to the public with Samsung’s Gear VR, powered by Oculus.

New Year’s Eve at Fort McDowell Casino – 10424 N. Fort McDowell Rd., Fort McDowell

Cleveland’s Breakfast Club performs. This is a versatile four-piece band performing all styles of music with the ultimate tribute to one of the best decades in modern music… the 80’s.  Other activities include New Year’s Eve Bingo: 39 games, $90,000+ in cash and prizes. 1st pack $30, additional packs $10 (3 for 1). Session start times: 10 a.m. Pre-Bash; 7 p.m. NYE Bash; 12:30 a.m.

El Hefe & Dierks Bentley’s Whiskey Row Tempe Champagne Ball  – El Hefe  – 640 S. Mill Ave., Tempe

If you want to see Mill Ave on New Year’s eve, then settle into one venue for the evening, this may be the place for you to ring in the New Year!

One Ticket!  This may be  Biggest Block Party on Mill Ave with a 40ft stage in the middle of 6th St. There will be performances by AZ’s Top Local DJ’s. Confetti blasts, Champagne Inflatables, Ball Drop, Champagne Tubs. Local DJS: Diesel, Squared, Steel. Part of Downtown Tempe’s annual NYE celebration. GA Tickets are $25, prices go up after first 1,000 tickets sold. VIP Tickets are $50 (Includes VIP bar and lounge, guaranteed an upfront view of the stage. Prices go up after first 250 tickets sold. Call for VIP Table and Bottle Service Packages.

New Year’s Eve at The Terrace Room, Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort

11111 N. 7th St., Phoenix

$50 cover charge for non-dinner guests.  The Terrace Room, adjacent to Different Pointe of View features The Hamptons, a six-piece band performing a line-up of today’s hits, favorite oldies, and classic rock.

Entertainment begins at 8 p.m. and is complimentary for dinner guests. Includes party favors, light fare and a champagne toast at midnight. What a great place to ring in the New Year.  Check with the hotel for the cost of a room for the evening and eliminate the driving hassle!

New Year’s Eve with Roger Clyne & the Peacemakers – Celebrity Theatre, Phoenix

Show at 9 p.m., doors at 8 p.m., club doors at 7 p.m. The Taco Stand will be open in the club for everyone, So come early and enjoy Mexican Moonshine Tequila Drink Specials and $8 Taco plates (two tacos with rice and beans). Rows 1-3 will be removed for dancing. Rows 4-13: $53; Rows 14-25: $43.00. A Pre-Show Meet & Greet (extra $100 in addition to seat ticket charge) includes a photo opportunity with the band, one taco plate (2 tacos with rice & beans) and one Mexican moonshine drink coupon. Must have a show ticket to attend. Show ticket is not included. All tickets subject to service charge.

Golfland’s New Year’s Eve Party – Mesa Golfland

Ring in 2017 in a family-friendly environment. Unlimited mini golf, laser tag, race cars, and video games, a DJ, dance floor and midnight balloon drop. Hours 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. $19.99 per person in advance, $25 at the door. A great way to spend time with the whole family!

As you can see, there are many things to do in Phoenix New Years eve to ring in the new year.  Enjoy the great Phoenix weather and check out the outdoor venues.  There are many family friendly activities, sporting events and options to celebrate earlier in the evening and return home safely by midnight.

Results of the October 15, 2016 shred-A-Thon in Ahwatukee Sponsored by Shirley Coomer and Gregory Stainton of Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living

Thank-you to everyone for joining Gregory and I for our 9th Shred-A-Thon held October 15, 2016 at Monte Vista Elementary school in Mountain Park Ranch.  Monte Vista is one of the amazing elementary schools in the Kyrene School District. Here are the results:

• 41 Boxes of Food collected for the Kyrene Foundation’s Thanksgiving Food Distribution for families in need in the Kyrene school district (value of $2041)
• $629 donated for the purchase of Thanksgiving turkeys to be given along with the food boxes
• 13,500 pounds of paper was brought to be shredded, which translates into $811.20 of funds to the Tempe Hilibation Center (a 501(3) (c) organization.
• ASDD donated the services of two trucks and manpower for this event
• 20 Volunteers helped make this event possible – Special thank-you to the members of the Kyrene Foundation who assisted us making this a success!

A special thank-you to our five sponsors:

• Rebecca Kossmann – Liberty Mutual Insurance
• Mike Langs – Arizona Mortgage Specialists
• Mike Neumayer – College Hunks Moving
• Mark King – King Home Inspections
• Cheryl Stephan & Kay Handeland – Old Republic Title

Our next Shred-A-Thon will be April  29, 2017 at Monte Vista Elementary school from 9 AM to 11 AM. We will again be collecting food for the Kyrene Foundation!  See you there!

Monte Vista Elementary  April 23, 2016 Ahwatukee Shred-A-Thon – Results

Thank-you to everyone who participated in our semi-annual Shred-A-Thon at Monte Vista Elementary school and made the event a great success!

What a great Saturday!  We collected 33 Boxes of non-perishable food items for the Kyrene Resource Center.  The value of this food is over $2191!   Additionally, $223 in cash donations were accepted from folks who didn’t bring food donations but still wanted to give to the Kyrene Resource Center food pantry.  The money will help the Kyrene Resource Center purchase specific food items as needed to round out the family food baskets.

Thank-you to ASDD Document destruction for providing the on-site shred truck.  People bringing paper to be shred were able to see their documents raised into the truck and shred, assuring them their identity would remain safe!  Not only were their documents shred but they became mixed with over 10,000 pounds of other shredded paper!  The amount of paper shredded was a record 10,321 Pounds with a value of $425.  This money will go to the Tempe Habilitation Center.  By shredding documents, paper was recycled and will not contribute to a landfill!  Best of all, those bringing documents to shred are keeping their identity safe!

ASDD Document Destruction is a social enterprise of TCH – The Centers for Habilitation.  TCH is a local Arizona 501(c)(3) non-profit, that has operated since 1967.  TCH is dedicated to providing support and opportunities to people with Physical and developmental disabilities.

Many people brought their documents in boxes,  which were recycled in the on-site Paper Collection bin at Monte Vista Elementary school.  The school will directly benefit from the money earned from the recycled cardboard.

This semi-annual Shred-A-Thon is sponsored by Shirley Coomer and Gregory Stainton of Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living to give back to the community.  Both Shirley & Greg live in Mountain Park Ranch in Ahwatukee and the children of both families have attended Kyrene schools.

Shirley & Gregory are members of the Board of Directors for the Kyrene Foundation and this is just one of many events and activities they participate in to raise funds for the Kyrene Foundation and the Kyrene Resource Center.

 For the 2014 – 2015 school year, The Resource Center distributed 2,180 Food Boxes to families in need, whose students attend Kyrene schools. For most people, it is hard to believe there is a ongoing need for food (and hygiene items) for families with children attending the Kyrene school district.  The Kyrene School district includes all of Ahwatukee, and parts of Tempe & Chandler.  The semi-annual Shred-A-Thon event adds much needed food to the food bank at a time when the school year is winding down and donations start to decline.  Community support has grown bigger and bigger each year and the generosity of the community is greatly appreciated.

The next FREE Shred-A-Thon is scheduled for Saturday,  October 15, 2016 at Monte Vista Elementary school.  At this event Shirley Coomer  & Gregory  Stainton will again be collecting food for the Kyrene Resource Center.  For the fall Shred-A-Thon,  the focus is  on food for the Thanksgiving food boxes and Turkeys which are provided for about 250 -300 families in the Kyrene School District who otherwise would not be able to afford a traditional Thanksgiving dinner.

Shirley Coomer & Gregory Stainton of Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living in Ahwatukee  also have developed the One Home One Family At A Time  Community program to give back to the community and the Kyrene Foundation.

This program provides for a $500 donation to the Foundation with each home purchase or sale through Shirley or Gregory.   Please call Shirley Coomer at 602.770.0643 for details on this program which supports your community through the Kyrene Foundation.

Successful October 24, 2015 Ahwatukee Shred-A-Thon For Kyrene School District

Thank-you to everyone who helped make this Fall’s  Shred-A-Thon sponsored by Shirley Coomer And Gregory Stainton of Keller Williams Realty Sonoran Living  a GREAT success!

Special Thank-you to ASDD Document Destruction!!

The residents  of  Mountain Park Ranch, the rest of Ahwatukee,  and surrounding communities showed up to have documents shredded to prevent identity theft and make sure their documents like bank statements,  utility bills or even business documents stay out of the hands of bad guys and keep their identity safe.

Folks bringing papers for shredding  were asked to donate Thanksgiving food items for the  Kyrene Foundation.  The Kyrene Foundation provides 300 Thanksgiving food boxes and a turkey to needy families in the Kyrene School district who otherwise may not enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving dinner. Items that were not  typical Thanksgiving food items went  to the Kyrene Resource Center which provides emergency food services for  Kyrene families throughout the year.

Again our community came through with generous donations of food and cash.   We collected 20 boxes of Food for the Kyrene Resource Center for families both in the Thanksgiving Food boxes the Foundation gives to Needy families in the Kyrene district as well as other items useful for ongoing food boxes for families in need.  The food collected equates to about 800 pounds of food, and if purchased would have a value of about $1280.00.  Folks who didn’t bring food donations donated cash which equates to the purchase of 32 of the 300 turkey goal!

We started the Shred-A-Thon at Monte Vista elementary in Mountain Park Ranch on October 24, 2015 at 9 AM and continued until 11:00 AM.  Over 8,000 pounds of shredded paper and cardboard was collected. The shred is worth $702 and will be sold to benefit the Tempe Center for Habilitation (TCH).  TCH provides services that support, care for and empower adults with developmental and physical disabilities. Services improve the quality of life, reduce barriers to independence, and help Arizonans of all ages to reach their full potential.

The shredding truck services were donated by  ASDD Document Destruction  shredding free as a community service.  Thank-you ASDD!!!  It is important for folks to see their documents shred on site.  Papers were placed in a bin and loaded directly into the truck and shred as we watched!  ASDD Document Destruction is owned by the TCH.

Folks bringing papers for shredding  were asked to donate Thanksgiving food items for the  Kyrene Foundation.  The Kyrene Foundation provides 300 Thanksgiving food boxes and a turkey to needy families in the Kyrene School district who otherwise may not enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving dinner. None Thanksgiving food will go to the Kyrene Resource Center which provides emergency food services for  Kyrene families throughout the year.

The next Shred-A-Thon will be held April  at Monte Vista Elementary School, again from 9:00 Am to 11:00 AM.  We will again be asking for donation of non-perishable food items for the  Kyrene Resource Center.

Special thanks to everyone who helped make this a success, including Mark King of King Home Inspections. Liberty Mutual Insurance and the members of the Board of the Kyrene Foundation. It took many hands to put shred in the bins, gather and sort the donated food and take apart the donated boxes that were also recycled.  A special thank-you to Monte Vista Elementary school for making the school parking lot available for this event.

Thank-you again to everyone who brought items to be shredded, donated food or money to help the the Kyrene Foundation and Kyrene Resource Center serve those in the community in need.

If I can be of assistance with your Real Estate needs anywhere in the Phoenix East Valley area, including Ahwatukee and the  Mountain Park Ranch areas,  please call me at 602.770.0643. I have attached two links below. The first one will let you email me with any questions or comments. The second, will send you to the custom search area of my website to look at homes for sale in Ahwatukee / Mountain Park Ranch areas by zip codes and by Kyrene schools.

Email me with any questions or comments

Homes for Sale in Ahwatukee /Mountain Park Ranch Area

The Ahwatukee Market for August 2015 in Zip Codes 85044, 85048 & 85045 presents a very different market across the different zip codes.

As a Realtor who lives and works in Ahwatukee,  I am often asked, “How is the market?”.  The Phoenix market is doing very well and has recovered nicely from the last several years of short sales and foreclosures.  Are you familiar with Ahwatukee, which  is a urban village and is actually part of the city of Phoenix?  The mailing address for homes in Ahwatukee is the city of  Phoenix.  However, it you ask anyone where to find  Ahwatukee, you will be directed to an area located on the south side of South Mountain.  By exiting from I-10 onto Elliott Rd, Warner Rd, Ray Rd, or Chandler Blvd and going west you will find Ahwatukee.  The north side of Ahwatukee boarders on South Mountain.  The south part of the community boarders Pecos Road (soon to be part of the Loop 202 Freeway).  The eastern part of Ahwatukee boarders I-10 and the west boarders the Gila River Indian Community. The city of Phoenix has 15 Urban villages within its borders and Ahwatukee is the southern most village.

The market in Ahwatukee is always interesting.  We tend to think of the Ahwatukee market as one market, when in fact, there are three zip codes,  85044, 85048, 85045.  Today each zip code  performs differently than the others. If you are looking to buy a home or sell a home you need to understand the nuances of this Urban Village.

If you look at the Ahwatukee market and compare August 2015 to July 2015, you will find August Sales down slightly.  For July, we had 3.2 months of inventory compared to 3.4 months ending August 2015.  This means that it would take 3.4 months for the market to absorb all the current houses for sale  if no more homes came on the market.  The Real Estate community here in Arizona  typically considers 3 – 4 months of inventory a “Balanced” market.   Less than 3 months of  inventory and  we are in a seller’s market.  With more than 4 months we are in a buyer’s market.  So the 3.4 months of inventory  in Ahwatukee puts us in a Balanced market.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking that all of Ahwatukee is created equal!  Let’s look at the 85044 zip code. There is currently  2.2 months of inventory available for sale, making this zip code a Buyer’s market. If you are looking to buy a home in this zip code,  you are going to find fewer homes to choose from  and more competition for those homes.  You will likely not be the successful bidder on a home if you are trying to low ball the seller.

This zip code in Ahwatukee also has a number of homes that are in an Adult (age restricted) community.  Does this impact the inventory?  Perhaps.  We typically see more homes come on the market in the Adult communities as fall approaches and we have our “Snowbirds” coming to the Phoenix area for the winter and looking for a  seasonal home.  I would expect to see inventory increase in this zip code as the cooler temperatures return. While not all of 85044 is in an adult community this can certainly impact the number of homes on the market and the average price per sale.  This area also is the first area built in Ahwatukee and has the oldest homes.  Many of these have been nicely updated but other have not and present a great opportunity for buyers to add their style and taste to their own upgrades.

What about zip code 85048?   We ended August with 4.0 months of inventory in this zip code.  That leaves us in a balanced market but on the verge of a  buyer’s market. This zip code area is located in the center of Ahwatukee, with no Adult communities to impact inventory or pricing.  This area has a wide variety of home pricing from high end custom homes and gated communities to track and semi custom subdivisions. This area also includes several condominium communities. This zip code has a different mix of properties than the 85044 zip code.  This is also a new area of Ahwatukee.

Lastly, let’s look at the 85045 zip code.  Here we have 4.7 month of inventory, making this zip code a Buyers’ market.  Why is there such a difference in inventory here?  There may be several reasons but one largely held by local realtors is the impact of the Loop 202 expansion along Pecos Road at the southern most end of Ahwatukee.   The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) has already started demolition of homes along the path of the freeway.  What has been Pecos Road will become the extension of the Loop 202 freeway working around South Mountain and continuing into LaVeen and ultimately to the I 10 Freeway.  Many other home owners will be moving soon.  Still others are holding out as they try to come to agreement with ADOT on house pricing.

For more information on the South Mountain Freeway click here.

Some buyers are concerned about the construction of the new Freeway and impact on the houses remaining after ADOT buys and destroys  current homes.  Will there be much freeway noise?  What about pollution? What will the edge of the Freeway look like? What about the homes that were not along Pecos Road before, but will now bump up to the new Freeway?  Much to consider when buying in this area.

Not all homes in 85045 are truly impacted by the new Freeway but there is enough concern that some buyers do not to look at homes to the south of Chandler Blvd. Since buyers often search by zip code this could result in some buyers leaving this zip code off of their search.

Why is all this important to me?

Why do you need to know the market behavior for individual Ahwatukee zip codes?  If you are buying a home you need the expertise of a local Realtor so you can taylor your offer to the property and the market. No one wants to overpay for a house (or for anything for that matter). And no one wants to make a low ball offer that insults a seller and receives no response.  If you are selling a home you also need the expertise of a knowledgable local realtor who can help you price your home to sell.

When working with a knowledgeable local Realtor you will get the latest information on the local market.  You will understand the markets within the market. While many people think of Ahwatukee as a single market, now that you have seen the months of inventory can vary by zip code you will understand the marketing strategies that can be applied to different inventories.  When you are armed with this information you can make a more effective offer on a property or set the right expectations as a seller more realistically.

I hope you found the information about the Ahwatukee Zip Code differences helpful. If I can be of assistance with your Real Estate needs anywhere in the East Valley area please call me at 602.770.0643. I have attached four links below. The first one will let you email me with any questions or comments.The second, will send you to the custom search area of my website to look at homes for sale in Ahwatukee / Mountain Park Ranch or the East Valley area. The third link will take you to the top rated Kyrene school district  website.  All homes in Ahwatukee are in the Kyrene school district.  The last one will send you to the Home Value area of my website so you can see what your Home is worth Today.

Email me with any questions or comments

Homes for Sale in Ahwatukee /Mountain Park Ranch Area

Kyrene School  District Information

What is my current Home worth???

The 3rd annual Blessing of the Animals will take place Sunday, October 25, 2015 at Desert Foothills United Methodist Church in Ahwatukee from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The church is located at 2156 E Liberty Lane, Phoenix, Az  85048.  This is a FREE community wide event to bless all pets from cats and dogs to fish and turtles!

Our pets have become part of our family and for many people pets ARE their family.  We enjoy the companionship of our pets.  We look forward to the wagging tails as we come home from a long day. Millions of households have a variety of pets from cats and dogs to rabbits, fish and hamsters.

When you bring your pet to the Blessing of the Animals this year you will find a picture booth to capture that picture of you and your furry loved one.

There will be FREE entertainment with an emcee and DJ.  No community gathering is complete with out food! There will be FREE hot dogs this year.  And, don’t forget about feeding the animals!  The church will be accepting donations of pet food to donate to “Lost Our Home“, which is an affiliate of Family Promise. Family Promise is an outreach program to support families that have lost their home and are in need of interim services.  This program allows families to keep their pets as they experience a loss of a home.  Often when facing this challenging situation a pet is a great comfort to children and parents alike.

Looking for something fun for the kids to do?  Tired of hearing “I am bored!”  Come and have fun in the Bounce House.  What kids do not like bouncing around in a fun Bounce House?

Don’t have a pet of your own to bring?  No problem, there will be a  petting zoo for kids or adults young at heart!  We see very few petting zoos in Ahwatukee so bring the family and meet a few new “furry” friends!

There will also be a Pet Halloween costume contest!  Dress your pet in a great Halloween costume and join the pet Halloween costume contest.  Not sure where to find a pet costume?  Check  out Petsmart for a variety of pet friendly costumes.

What do you need to bring?  First, bring any pet you would like to have blessed on leash or in a carrier. If you pet is uncomfortable around crowds feel free to bring a picture, leash, collar or toy of your pet to be blessed in their place.

Also remember donations of pet food will be accepted and donated to “Lost Our Home“.

Please mark Sunday, October 25 on your calendar and join others in the community as pets are blessed, pet food donated and enjoy a great community event to bless our furry (and not so furry) friends.

Don’t miss out on another FREE event in Ahwatukee this same weekend.

Along with the Blessing of the pets, don’t miss the semi-annual Shred-A-Thon on Saturday, October 24.  The Shred-A-Thon is another FREE event in Ahwatukee.  This Shred-A-Thon supports the Kyrene Resource Center and this fall we are collecting  Thanksgiving food to be  donated to the Kyrene Resource center’s Thanksgiving food boxes for needy families.  Click on this link for more  information about the Shred-A-Thon location at Monte Vista Elementary school in Mountain Park Ranch in Ahwatukee.

Click Here For Update 

UPDATE on October 24, 2015 Shred-A-Thon

Another Free Ahwatukee Shred-A-Thon Saturday October 24 2015

This  FREE event is sponsored by Shirley Coomer & Greg Stainton of Keller Williams Realty Sonoran living in Ahwatukee at the Monte Vista Elementary school located at 15221 S Ray Road  in Phoenix. This is our 8th Free Shred-A-Thon event.  We hold these each April and October in support of the Kyrene Resource Center and to give back to the community by offering FREE Shredding to help prevent identify theft.

At this FREE event our Shred Truck, Compliments of ASDD Shredding will accept  boxes or bags of papers to shred. (okay to leave paper clips and staples in the paper to be shred)  ASDD is owned by The Tempe Center for Habilitation  (TCH) and the donated shred will be sold to benefit the TCH.  When you bring in shred items we ask for food donation to the Kyrene Resource Center.

Last November, the Kyrene Resource center provided 300 boxes for needy  families with students enrolled in the Kyrene School district.  This fall we are again asking for food items to be used for Thanksgiving Food boxes.  (one food item for each box or bag shred).   Last October we collected 700 pounds of food for the Thanksgiving food boxes. November 2014, the Kyrene Resource center provided 300  FREE boxes of Thanksgiving food for needy  families with students enrolled in the Kyrene School district.  In addition to the food box,  families were given a Thanksgiving turkey.  The picture to the right shows  the Thanksgiving Box and Turkey distribution.  As you can see cars are lined up to receive their families’ Thanksgiving meal. the turkeys are stacked on the pallet for distribution to the families.  Without this assistance many families would not have the traditional Thanksgiving dinner we all enjoy.

 The Thanksgiving items needed are:    Canned Green Beans, Cream of Mushroom Soup, French Fried

Onions, Canned Yams or Sweet Potatoes, Bag of Marshmallows, Box of Stuffing, Box of Mashed Potatoes,

Canned or Package Turkey Gravy, Cornbread or Biscuit Mix, Canned Cranberry Sauce, Non-perishable

Dessert Mix (pumpkin pie can, cake mix etc.)

You are asked to bring one food item per box/bag to be donated to the Kyrene Resource Center. We ask for a limit of 10 boxes or bags of  items to be shred.  If you have more items please call Shirley Coomer at Keller Williams Realty at 602.770.0643, as we can usually accommodate additional shredding.

The Kyrene Resource center is supported by The Kyrene Foundation  and  provides services to families with students enrolled in the Kyrene School District.  The Family Resource Center  provides services to  families in need of food, clothes, hygiene items and other seasonal help. There are almost 300 homeless children in the Kyrene district which includes parts of Tempe, Chandler and all of Ahwatukee. Homelessness is defined as  families double bunked with other families, those who have lost a rental property or a home and  are living in temporary housing, IE extended stay hotels or other short term housing.

This free Shredding event is unique in that it has a ripple effect throughout multiple charitable groups benefiting the community we live it. As stated above, the food collected  directly benefits the Kyrene Resource center which is supported by the Kyrene Foundation.  In addition, the Shred truck is donated by ASDD Document Destruction.  ASDD Documentation Destruction of Tempe is owned by the Tempe Centers for Habilitation(TCH). The shredded paper is sold and the proceeds benefits the TCH provides services that support, care for and empower adults with developmental and physical disabilities. What a great way to support our community with services we all can use!

Why is this Shred-A-Thon different from many others?    Attendees can watch their papers being placed in a tub and then raised into the shred truck and destroyed.  Unlike many other shredding events where you items may be trucked away you can watch documents being destroyed real time, and you can rest assured the shredding is complete before you drive away.  Anther benefit is your shredded documents are mixed in with thousands  of pounds of other shredded documents.

We are grateful for the support of ASDD Document Destruction for this Shred-A-Thon.  ASDD Document Destruction is a social enterprise of TCH – The Centers for Habilitation.  TCH is a local Arizona 501 (c)(3) non-profit that has been operating since 1967.  The TCH is dedicated to providing support and opportunities to people with physical and developmental disabilities.  One of the ways TCH benefits individuals with disabilities is through providing jobs or job coaching and job placement. This is where ASDD Document Destruction comes into play.  As a social enterprise of TCH, ASDD encompasses all of these roles.  Their goal is to assist individuals with disabilities to obtain productive and valuable training and employment.  The THC employees gain not only a paycheck but also skill training, independence, and dignity through their work.  Moving those in our communities from dependence to independence is great for the community but more important, great for the individuals achieving a greater sense of freedom and self-esteem.

At the October 2014 Shred-A-Thon event, 5,758 pounds of paper was shredded!  This equates to saving 72 trees. Imagine keeping this paper out of the landfills.  The shredding was sold to raise $430 for the benefit of the TCH.   Kyrene School District Prevention Services Manager, Amanda Nosbisch stated that approximately 700 pounds of food was collected, which equates to $1120 in food value for the Resource center.

Not only did people drive their trucks, cars and SUVs to Monte Vista Elementary school to have their papers shred, several local residences walked over to the event pulling their boxes or carts with items to shred!  And…they brought food donations! Talk about being eco friendly!

The Shred-A-Thon was started by Shirley Coomer of Keller Williams Realty as a result of  learning some  clients discovered some form of identity theft when applying for a home loan.  Many people don’t routinely look at their credit until they are ready to apply for a home or car loan and may have no idea their identity has been comprised.  When you  have old bank statements or tax returns shred in a truck before your eyes you can rest assured  your personal information remains private and your identity uncompressed.

By partnering with the Kyrene Resource Center and asking for food donations the community is helping the center provide food to families vetted by the school staff in need of food assistance.  While the economy in the Phoenix area has improved along with the housing market, there still remains a need in the community.  While you find many multi-million homes in the area, many families are still struggling to make ends meet and the resources at the Kyrene Resource center are key to helping families with many basic needs, including food.  When a holiday comes around, it is hard to explain to children  there is no money for the traditional Thanksgiving dinner they are told everyone enjoys!  This drive helps families participate in traditional Thanksgiving dinners.

Rounding out the community support for this event are the youth from Desert Foothills United Methodist church.  They help direct traffic into the school and ensure the lines move along to those bringing shred items and help collect the food and sort like items into boxes.

Members of the Kyrene Foundation board also attended to help collect the food donations.  At the end of the Shred-A-Thon, food is in boxes sorted according to the request of the Kyrene Resource Center to expedite the delivery and distribution of the food collected.

As you can see it takes many hands to make this community Shred-A-Thon a huge success and the community support is greatly appreciated!

Where else can you accomplish the following:

1. Shred papers to protect your identity
2. Have your shredded items avoid a land fill and save trees
3. Know that your shredded documents raised money for  Tempe  Center for Habilitation  (TCH)
4. Donate food to the Kyrene Resource Center

Look for signs approaching Monte Vista Elementary school located at 15221 S Ray Road  in Phoenix.  We look forward to seeing you on Saturday October 24th between 9 and 11am!

Realtors making a Difference, One Home and One Family at a Time

I hope you found the information about the upcoming Shred-a-thon Helpful. If I can be of assistance with your Real Estate needs anywhere in the Easy Valley area please call me at 602.770.0643. I have attached three links below. The first one will let you email me with any questions or comments.The second, will send you to the custom search area of my website to look at homes for sale in Ahwatukee / Mountain Park Ranch or the East Valley area. The last one will send you to the Home Value area of my website so you can see what your Home is worth Today.

Email me with any questions or comments

Homes for Sale in Ahwatukee /Mountain Park Ranch Area

What is my current Home worth???

I bought  Home Warranty Protection – Now What?

It is true most of us do not read the fine print.  Sometimes we don’t read at all, we just move ahead.  Well, it pays to read the fine print when you buy a Home Warranty.  You can save yourself much  frustration and money by understanding your how your Home Warranty  protection works before  you need to use it.

Home Warranty protection can provide much peace of mind when you buy a home.  Buyers can avoid unexpected expenses for repair or replacement of the Air Conditioning, water heater or other major appliances once they move into their new home. Here in the Phoenix area our hard water takes its toll on our water heaters.

I had a call from a client yesterday who had been in his new home less than two months.  He was calling to see what to do with the bill for the pool motor he had replaced last Friday, going into the Labor Day holiday weekend.  I asked why he had a bill from the motor replacement, as I made sure the pool option was part of the Home Warranty that we asked the seller to pay for as part of the home purchase.

My retired client replied,  he didn’t think anyone would come on a holiday weekend and just called a pool repair company to make sure it was fixed for the weekend.  Now he has a $1100 bill from the pool company.  I am no pool expert but that seems a bit high to me.

My client  did receive the initial welcome information packet from the home warranty company and he did know to contact them (he had another issue when he first moved in with a RO System which unfortunately was not covered, but that is another story). Unfortunately he didn’t read the packet of information he received until now.  The information told him to call his agent, so he was calling me to ask what to do with the bill. I am pretty sure the printed materials from the home warranty company did not instruct him to call his Realtor.

The process with any home warranty is to first call the home warranty company and explain your situation.  They will check to ensure your plan covers the reason for the needed service.  Pools, spas, washer, dryer and other appliances may need to be identified and have an extra fee paid for upgrades to the basic policy when the home warranty is purchased.  The home warranty company will ensure your service issue is covered, ask a few questions and dispatch the appropriate service provided.

Now Home Warranties are like any other form of insurance.  You may buy a home warranty, have a claim and be amazed your only paid a service call (typically $50 to $75) and got  a new water heater (like I did).  Or you may have a home warranty in place and nothing malfunctions for the year!!! (lucky you!)

Home Warranties are pretty similar is how they work.  They all have disclaimers for things they do not cover (they may cover a primary pool motor but not a secondary spa motor) so read the fine print. Do they cover typical items?  Yes, a dishwasher, a stove, microwave, AC unit, etc.       

A few years ago on New Year’s eve my son was in the garage and let us know there was water in the floor, which was strange.  Sure enough, our water heater was starting to go!   We immediately put a hose on the faucet at the bottom so the water would drain outside and I called my home warranty

company.  Again, this is New Year’s eve.  I talked to a great agent who said she would have a plumber give me a call as soon as possible.  Of course I am thinking it will be days not hours before I get  call.  Sure enough, within the hour I had a call from the plumber. I explained my situation and age of the water heater.  He said I definitely needed a new one – and he would be at my house at 9 AM with the new water heater.  Guess what?  He showed up at 9 AM, installed the new heater and removed the old one. (I was so impressed with his service I continue to recommend him to clients in need of a great, responsive plumber!)

I always recommend buyers get a home warranty when they purchase a home.  This simple Home Warranty protection can save hundreds of dollars and help you avoid an unexpected appliance repair or replacement.  Home Warranties can be renewed each year if an owner chooses.  I don’t normally get appliance warranties when I buy new appliances.  I find a Home Warranty encompasses my whole household.  Now many appliance warranties  you buy for a specific appliance may not have a deductible, while most Home Warranties will carry a deductible.  For my money, the Home Warranty protection is better use of my hard earned money.

Home Warranties are also beneficial for anyone with investment properties.  The tenant or property manager can call the Home Warranty company directly and save those midnight calls for service repairs.

Can you purchase a home warranty even if you have lived in your home for months or years?  The answer is Yes!.  Most home warranty companies have in initial waiting period after buying the plan before you file a claim, often 30 days.  However, when ordered through a Realtor, the waiting period can be less and often the actual Home Warranty protection plan costs less than when order directly by the consumer.

When Buying a Home Warranty protection plan you are buying insurance.  Consider any insurance plan carefully and read all the information.  Forget what you neighbor, friend or relative told you about their Home Warranty experience.  Home Warranty protection plans have evolved over the years and have generally improved over past programs.  Each company is different.  Some offer 12 month plans and other 13 months.  There are basic plans, gold or diamond plans, all with various coverage.  So rather than assuming (and we all know what that means) you do or do not have certain coverage, READ YOUR SPECIFIC PLAN.

If you want to order a Home Warranty plan or have questions please give me a call.  If you are looking to buy or sell  home in the Phoenix East Valley area (Ahwatukee, Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert) please give me a call.

I hope you found the information about Home Warranty Protection  useful. If I can be of assistance with your Real Estate needs anywhere in the Ahwatukee / Mountain Park Ranch / East Valley area please call me at 602.770.0643. I have attached three links below. The first one will let you email me with any questions or comments. The second, will send you to the custom search area of my website to look at homes for sale in Ahwatukee / Mountain Park Ranch or the East Valley area. The last one will send you to the Home Value area of my website so you can see what your Home is worth Today.

Email me with any questions or comments

Homes for Sale in Ahwatukee /Mountain Park Ranch Area

What is my current Home worth???