Laura Rightenburg | Real Estate Consultant | Luxury Homes, Scottsdale, Phoenix

Foreclosure News Update

2010-10-18T16:32:00.000-07:00

Bank of America to Revive Foreclosures; Shares Climb October 18, 2010, 8:34 PM EDT

By David Mildenberg

Oct. 18 (Bloomberg) -- Bank of America Corp., the largest U.S. bank by assets, said it will start resubmitting foreclosure affidavits next week in 102,000 cases in which judgment is pending. Shares of the company gained as much as 3.3 percent.

“As was the case for our judicial state review, our initial assessment findings show the basis for our foreclosure decisions is accurate,” spokesman Dan Frahm said in an e-mailed statement today.

Bank of America shares declined 9.1 percent last week, reaching their lowest level in more than a year, amid scrutiny of foreclosure practices and speculation that investors may force lenders to buy back faulty loans. The lender said Oct. 8 it would stop foreclosure sales nationally pending a review of its practices over the next few weeks.

Separately, Ally Financial Inc. spokeswoman Gina Proia said the company is processing foreclosures once it has reviewed the documents and corrected any errors. The lender halted evictions in 23 states on Sept. 17 and instituted a review for foreclosure documents.

“Today’s action by the banks is a political action more than anything else,” Meredith Whitney, founder of Meredith Whitney Advisory Group, said today in an interview at a financial conference in Naples, Florida.

Reviewing Cases

The cases Bank of America has reviewed so far affect foreclosures in 23 states that require judicial action before a home is seized, the bank said. Foreclosure sales will be delayed in the remaining 27 states until a review is completed state-by- state, Frahm said.

Fewer than 30,000 foreclosure sales will have been delayed during the review, Bank of America said. Costs stemming from the delays are “grossly distorted,” Barbara Desoer, president of the home-lending unit, said in an interview last week.

The scrutiny of foreclosure practices -- such as robo- signing, in which bank employees vouched for the accuracy of foreclosure affidavits without reading underlying records -- won’t cost as much as demands to repurchase loans, Whitney said. Future losses from repurchases of home loans will likely total $55 billion to $120 billion, JPMorgan Chase & Co. analysts led by John Sim and Ed Reardon wrote in a Oct. 15 report.

Bank of America gained 36 cents, or 3 percent, to $12.34 in New York Stock Exchange composite trading.

Article courtesy of Bloomberg

Top 10 Scottsdale Greenbelt

2010-10-05T17:39:00.000-07:00

TOP 10 REAL ESTATE DEALS

We have analyzed the current marketplace and have selected the Top 10 Properties that offer the Greatest Value at the Best Price.

THIS WEEK'S FOCUS

THE SCOTTSDALE GREENBELT

McCormick Ranch
Gainey Ranch
Scottsdale Country Club

Between $350,000 and $400,000

N. Via Palma
McCormick Ranch

3 bedroom 2 bath
1943 sq. ft.
Patio Home

$350,000

Beautifully Remodeled

Wow! this beautifully remodeled home has it all! Brand new open kitchen with all new cabinets,granite slab counters,a huge breakfast bar, stainless steel upgraded appliances,a wine/beverage fridge,large pantry and under counter lighting! Travertine set on a brick lay and the diagonal throughout except the bedrooms. Designer paint, stacked stone fireplace,upgraded fixtures and lighting and custom cabinetry in the master bath. Travertine showers and granite slab counters in both baths! Two large patios great for entertaining! Beautiful complex features community pools,spas,and tennis courts, plus Mccormick Ranch has miles of biking,walking trails. Walk to restaurants and shopping.No age restriction in Heritage Village two. Seller is in the process of putting final touches on the property.

MLS#4460056 ReMax Fine Properties

E. San Salvador Dr.
McCormick Ranch

3 bedroom 2 bath
1865 sq. ft.
Single Family, Detached

$364,900

Remodeled with Lush Landscaping & Lots of Storage

Beautifully remodeled home in the heart of McCormick Ranch. Nice open Great Room floor plan with plantation shutters throughout, granite counter tops and new kitchen cabinets and fixtures. Side gates, home siding, DE Filter for the pool and pool pump have all been replaced. Current owners have added a soft water system and a Life Source Water Conditioning sytem. Need Storage? Home features lots of attic storage space with 2 points of entrance and a 2.5 car garage. Walking distance to cochise elementary school, greenbelt and Mountain View Park. Backyard features a diving pool and lush landscaping. Great Location!

**When this home is purchased, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to local Arizona Charities through The Williams Community Foundation**

MLS#4433256 The Williams Real Estate Co

E. Gainey Road
Gainey Ranch

2 bedroom 2 bath
1259 sq. ft.
Patio Home

$369,000

Open Floorplan in Gainey Ranch Pavilions

** BEAUTIFUL SINGLE LEVEL HOME IN GAINEY RANCH PAVILIONS ** OPEN FLOOR PLAN ** VAULTED CEILINGS ** FIREPLACE ** LARGE MASTER BEDROOM ** 2-CAR GARAGE ** LARGE PATIO ** SUNSET VIEWS ** CLOSE TO POOL /SPA ** CLOSE TO GAINEY VILLAGE SHOPS AND RESTAURANTS ** LUXURY RESORT STYLE LIVING AT GAINEY RANCH IS THE BEST !! ESTATE CLUB HOUSE ** POOL/SPA ** FITNESS CENTER ** TENNIS COURTS ** GUARD GATED SECURITY ** GOLF AND LAKE COMMUNITY **

MLS#4365179 John Hall & Assoc.

E. Del Marino
Heritage Village

3 bedroom 3 bath
2006 sq. ft.
Patio Home

$375,000

Canterra Style with Casita

Wow!! What an incredible value! Where else in North Scottsdale can you get such an incredible Home with Casita for this kind of price?? This wonderful Golden Heritage home has been maintained beautifully. Features include a private courtyard entry with Canterra Style wall fountain w/Basin, New Paint throughout, Soaring Ceilings, Skylights, Spa Inspired master Bath, New Windows (3 more currently being replaced), Built-In Bookshelves, Newer HVAC, Newer Roof w/Warranty, Epoxy Garage Floor, Garage Cabinets, No Popcorn Ceilings, Full Guest Casita w/Private Bath, Incredible lot siding Greenbelt and no Rear Neighbors, and So Much More! Walking distance to Restaurants, Night Life, Lake, Walking Paths and everything McCormick has to Offer.

MLS#4464411 HomeSmart

N. Ajo Rd.
McCormick Ranch

3 bedroom 2 bath
1942 sq. ft.
Townhouse

$379,900

New. Completely Remodeled.

NEW, NEW. COMPLETELY REMODELED.NOTHING SPARED, NO CORNERS CUT. ALL NEW EVERYTHING!!!!GRANITE COUNTERS,DOORS,FRONT DOOR, KITCHEN, BATHS, CARPET,NEW A/C, FIXTURES, REFRIG, STOVE,WASHER/DRYER. BASE BOARDS, SINKS, TOILETS, LIGHT FIXTURES,CABINETS. THERE IS NOTHING OLD HERE. COMMUNITY HAS JUST COMPLETED ALL NEW ROADS, EXTENSIVE RECLAIMED WATERING SYSTEM HAS JUST BEEN COMPLETED FOR WATERING ALL OF THE GRASS THIS WATER IS SHARED WITH MCCORMICK GOLF COURSE. EXTERIOR OF BUILDINGS ARE IN THE PROCESS OF BEING PAINTED. CENTRALLY LOCATED, PERFECT LOCATION FOR 2ND HOME, CLOSE TO EVERYTHING. NOTING TO DO BUT MOVE IN AND ENJOY!!

MLS#4407568 HomeSmart

N 77th Place
Scottsdale Country Club

2 bedroom 2 bath
1651 sq. ft.
Apartment Style/Flat

$387,000

Luxury Condo in gated community of
Scottsdale Country Club

Luxury 2 bedroom 2 bath condo with den located within the gated golf community of Scottsdale Country Club. Home features two covered balconies, one overlooking the common area with fountain and the other with views of the McDowell Mountains and golf course.

**When this home is purchased, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to local Arizona Charities through The Williams Community Foundation**

MLS#4412870 Williams Real Estate Co

East Benito Drive
McCormick Ranch

2 bedroom 2 bath
1846 sq. ft.
Patio Home

$390,000

Ready to Move In

Special home in a special area of McCormick Ranch. This is a ready to move in home, with newer carpet, floors, appliances, AC/heat pump, granite counters,hugh walkin master shower,new toliets, plantation shutters,new windows and sliding doors, separate laundry room,epoxy floor in the garage, outside of home painted this past winter,outdoor kitchen with beautiful landscaping and a cover patio. The owner has kept this home immaculate even in the garage. Furniture available on separate bill of sale.

MLS#4434150 RE/MAX Achievers

East Ironwood Court
McCormick Ranch

4 bedroom 2 bath
2249 sq. ft.
Single Family Detached

#394,900 just reduced to $379,900

Seller is Motivated...New Low Price

****NEW PRICE REDUCTION SELLER IS VERY MOTIVATED AND WANTS AN OFFER****NOT SHORT SALE OR BANK OWNED Answers fast!!!! HURRY THIS IS THE BEST PRICED HOME IN THE AREA AND WON'T LAST LONG!!!! Great location in Scottsdale close to the 101. Huge corner lot, with 3 car garage. This home has been been recently updated with fresh paint inside and out, wood floors, new blinds, new ceiling fans and light fixtures, brand new appliances, new landscaping, citrus trees, R.V. Gate and much more. If you are looking to live in a quiet community on a culdesac look no further!!

MLS#4431066 Olson Gough

N. Scottsdale Road
McCormick Ranch

3 bedroom 2.5 bath
2293 sq. ft.
Townhouse

$399,000

Vacation in your own Home!

Vacation in your own home! Combine the best of resort living AND receive a return on your investment in the heart of Scottsdale. Join the rental pool where average rents in the high season generate $399 nightly. Set on the edge of McCormick Ranch Golf Course and Lake, this 3 bd/2.5ba is large enough as a getaway for family, friends & foursomes. Furnished & updated in '08, part of the rental pool maintained by the Millennium Resort which offers swimming, tennis, fine dining & other amenities. Fishing, walking and biking trails are at your doorstep. New flooring, granite, designer colors and golf course view from mstr.bd, this home offers the best in AZ living.

MLS#4129213 Russ Lyon Sotheby's

East Via Del Desierto
McCormick Ranch

3 bedroom 2 bath
2046 sq. ft.
Patio Home

$399,000

Step into your fabulous, updated home! On greenbelt,patios,lush landscape.N/S exposure.Living room w/remote operated shades on wood sliding doors.Surround sound,refinshed saltillo tile, wood floors.Second bd has separate entrance to front patio.Kitchen updated 2009 with SS appliances,quartz counter, glass & stone backsplash,amber glass trim.Built in bench under UV coated skylight,gorgeous pantry/cabinet has plug inside for microwave.Skylights in kitchen and eating area.Bathroom custom updated 2008 with 2 shower heads, glass tile, 2 towers on travertine counter, natural stone in brick formation. Upstairs bedroom has view of Camelback from balcony,custom closet system. Pristine neighborhood,clubhouse, heated pool & spa.Exteriors painted 2010. Quiet neighborhood. NOT BANK OWNED OR SHORT SALE

Updated with View of Camelback Mountain from Upstairs Bedroom

**When this home is purchased, a portion of the proceeds will be donated to local Arizona Charities through The Williams Community Foundation**

MLS#4455693 Williams Real Estate Co

Don't Worry The Market Will Bounce Back

2010-10-05T17:35:00.000-07:00

In the last 30 years, although sales of existing homes have gone up and down like a Roller Coaster, prices have increased at a steady pace.

Below is an explanation of when & why prices went up..and then went down....and up again.

1979 - 1982: In October, 1979, Fed Chairman, Paul Volcker, restricted the growth of the money supply, which in turn, caused interest rates to skyrocket.

Interest rates rose from 12.5% (Sept. 1979) to the peak of 17.48% in 1982!

Inflation plagued the economy and unemployment rose from 5.9% in 1979 to 10.8% in December 1982, which put the U.S. in a deep recession. EXISTING HOME SALES DROP 61%!

1982 - 1987: Congress stepped in and deregulated Savings & Loans. This gave them the power to invest directly in service corporations, make real estate loans without regard to the geographical location of the loan, and authorized them to hold up to 40 percent of their assets as commercial real estate loans. REAL ESTATE BOOMS!!!

1988 - 1992: The Savings & Loan Crisis HITS. 747 S&Ls in the United States FAIL. REMEMBER THE "KEATING FIVE"?

President Bush Sr. enacts the S&L Bailout Plan. SOUND FAMILIAR?

The ultimate cost of the S&L crisis is estimated to have totaled around $160.1 billion, about $124.6 billion of which was directly paid for by the U.S. taxpayer. SOUND FAMILIAR?

The accompanying slowdown in the Finance Industry and the Real Estate Market may have been a contributing cause of the 1990-1991 economic recession. EXISTING HOME SALES DROP 25%!

1993 - 2000: Interest rates drop, fluctuating from 8.12% in 1993 to 8.32% in 2002. EXISTING HOME SALES ARE ON THE RISE AND PRICES INCREASE AT A STEADY RATE

CAN YOU SAY .COM? Tech Stock becomes KING. Companies see their stock price shoot up when they add .com after their name. Life is GOOD....for a while anyway.

The dot-com bubble burst on March 10, 2000. The crash wiped out $5 trillion in market value of technology companies from March 2000 to October 2000.

2001 - 2007: Enter Alan Greenspan. In an effort to bring us out of a recession after the .com BUST and 9/11, Greenspan dramatically eases credit.

Baby Boomers decide that the stock market won't provide them with sufficient assets to retire. They take advantage of real estate markets and low down payments to speculate in residential real estate.

Investors step in, buy up as much as possible and lie about owners occupying homes.

Buyers overbid because they thought they could FLIP the house and make a killing.

Lenders provide loans to Buyers who could not qualify. THE REAL ESTATE MARKET GOES CRAZY!

HOMES SELL LIKE HOTCAKES AND PRICES ARE DRIVEN UP TO RECORD LEVELS!

It seems that this market will last forever and we will all be rich!

2007 - 2009: Oops! The BUBBLE BURSTS. It had to end, right?

The Bad News: HISTORY REPEATS ITSELF.

The Good News: HISTORY REPEATS ITSELF.

With the DRAMATIC increase in prices from 2001 - 2007, the Market HAD TO correct itself...DRAMATICALLY!

Home prices have rolled back to 2003 levels and as you can see by the chart below, interest rates are still at record lows.

10 Reasons To Buy a Home Enough with the doom and gloom about homeownership.

Brett Arends explains why owning a home is a good thing.

Enough with the doom and gloom about homeownership.

Sure, maybe there's more pain to come in the housing market. But when Time magazine starts running covers that declare "Owning a home may no longer make economic sense," it's time to say:

Enough is enough.

This is what "capitulation" looks like. Everyone has given up.

After all, at the peak of the bubble five years ago, Time had a different take. "Home Sweet Home," declared its cover then, as it celebrated the boom and asked: "Will your house make you rich?"

But it's not enough just to be contrarian. So here are 10 reasons why it's good to buy a home.

1. You can get a good deal. Especially if you play hardball. This is a buyer's market. Most of the other buyers have now vanished, as the tax credits on purchases have just expired. We're four to five years into the biggest housing bust in modern history. And prices have come down a long wayñ about 30% from their peak, according to Standard & Poor's Case-Shiller Index, which tracks home prices in 20 big cities. Yes, it's mixed. New York is only down 20%. Arizona has halved. Will prices fall further? Sure, they could. You'll never catch the bottom. It doesn't really matter so much in the long haul.

Where is fair value? Fund manager Jeremy Grantham at GMO, who predicted the bust with remarkable accuracy, said two years ago that home prices needed to fall another 17% to reach fair value in relation to household incomes. Case-Shiller since then: Down 18%.

2. Mortgages are cheap. You can get a 30-year loan for around 4.3%. What's not to like? These are the lowest rates on record. As recently as two years ago they were about 6.3%. That drop slashes your monthly repayment by a fifth. If inflation picks up, you won't see these mortgage rates again in your lifetime. And if we get deflation, and rates fall further, you can refi.

3. You'll save on taxes. You can deduct the mortgage interest from your income taxes. You can deduct your real estate taxes. And you'll get a tax break on capital gainsñif anyñwhen you sell. Sure, you'll need to do your math. You'll only get the income tax break if you itemize your deductions, and many people may be better off taking the standard deduction instead. The breaks are more valuable the more you earn, and the bigger your mortgage. But many people will find that these tax breaks mean owning costs them less, often a lot less, than renting.

4. It'll be yours. You can have the kitchen and bathrooms you want. You can move the walls, build an extension (zoning permitted) or paint everything bright orange. Few landlords are so indulgent; for renters, these types of changes are often impossible. You'll feel better about your own place if you own it than if you rent. Many years ago, when I was working for a political campaign in England, I toured a working-class northern town. Mrs. Thatcher had just begun selling off public housing to the tenants. "You can tell the ones that have been bought," said my local guide. "They've painted the front door. It's the first thing people do when they buy." It was a small sign that said something big.

5. You'll get a better home. In many parts of the country it can be really hard to find a good rental. All the best places are sold as condos. Money talks. Once again, this is a case by case issue: In Miami right now there are so many vacant luxury condos that owners will rent them out for a fraction of the cost of owning. But few places are so favored. Generally speaking, if you want the best home in the best neighborhood, you're better off buying.

6. It offers some inflation protection. No, it's not perfect. But studies by Professor Karl "Chip" Case (of Case-Shiller), and others, suggest that over the long-term housing has tended to beat inflation by a couple of percentage points a year. That's valuable inflation insurance, especially if you're young and raising a family and thinking about the next 30 or 40 years. In the recent past, inflation-protected government bonds, or TIPS, offered an easier form of inflation insurance. But yields there have plummeted of late. That also makes homeownership look a little better by contrast.

7. It's risk capital. No, your home isn't the stock market and you shouldn't view it as the way to get rich. But if the economy does surprise us all and start booming, sooner or later real estate prices will head up again, too. One lesson from the last few years is that stocks are incredibly hard for most normal people to own in large quantitiesñfor practical as well as psychological reasons. Equity in a home is another way of linking part of your portfolio to the long-term growth of the economyñif it happensñand still managing to sleep at night.

8. It's forced savings. If you can rent an apartment for $2,000 month instead of buying one for $2,400 a month, renting may make sense. But will you save that $400 for your future? A lot of people won't. Most, I dare say. Once again, you have to do your math, but the part of your mortgage payment that goes to principal repayment isn't a cost. You're just paying yourself by building equity. As a forced monthly saving, it's a good discipline.

9. There is a lot to choose from. There is a glut of homes in most of the country. The National Association of Realtors puts the current inventory at around 4 million homes. That's below last year's peak, but well above typical levels, and enough for about a year's worth of sales. More keeping coming onto the market, too, as the banks slowly unload their inventory of unsold properties. That means great choice, as well as great prices.

10. Sooner or later, the market will clear. Demand and supply will meet. The population is forecast to grow by more than 100 million people over the next 40 years. That means maybe 40 million new households looking for homes. Meanwhile, this housing glut will work itself out. Many of the homes will be bought. But many more will simply be destroyedñeither deliberately, or by inaction. This is already happening. Even two years ago, when I toured the housing slump in western Florida, I saw bankrupt condo developments that were fast becoming derelict. And, finally, a lot of the "glut" simply won't matter: It's concentrated in a few areas, like Florida and Nevada. Unless you live there, the glut won't have any long-term impact on housing supply in your town.

Article: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703376504575492023471133674.html

How Does an Interest Rate Affect the cost of a Home?

2010-10-05T17:31:00.000-07:00

That sounds like a simple question.

Of course a lower rate means a lower monthly payment.

But how much of a difference does that really make.

I've heard people overly-simplify the issue by saying that a 1% change in rate is roughly the same as a 10% change in price. Letís look into this a little closer and see if it holds up.

We've all heard that interest rates today are at all-time lows. I think we take that for granted, so it helps to include this chart that goes back to 1975.

It shows a 36-year average of mortgage rates.

The BLUE LINE is 30 year fixed rates and since that is the most popular program, that is what we will focus on.

As you can see by the graph, mortgage rates in 2010 are truly lower than anything we have seen in our lifetimes.

Current average 30 year fixed mortgage rates are around 4.375%.

If you were to purchase a home with a $400,000 home loan, the monthly principal and interest payment at that rate would be $1,997.

Now let's see how raising the rate to the 2000 average of 8.05% affects the payment. Thatís not all that long ago.

The payment at same loan amount at the 2000 rate is $2,949.

We increased the rate by 3.675% and that resulted in a 48% increase in payment!

That seems worse than the 1% rate to 10% price ratio, but let's look at it from a price perspective.

That increase in payment from $1,997 to $2,949 is the same as raising the loan amount from $400,000 to $590,646.

That is also a 48% increase in loan amount.

If the down payment is the same percentage for each example, then it also results in a 48% increase in sales price.

So for this example we discovered that a 3.675% increase in rate equals a 48% increase in price.

It also means a 1% increase in rate is equivalent to a 13% increase in sales price.

Don't think I chose a year with an exceptionally high rate. I could have used 1981 where rates were 16.63%!

In fact, the average rate over the 36 years is 9%. I chose 2000 because it wasn't that far back in history.

The lesson here is that we must recognize what an amazing opportunity we have to borrow money at this specific point in history.

Years from now we can look at an updated version of this graph and see the low point, and remember what a great deal we got in 2010.

Chris Mozilo NMLS# 183726; AZ LO-0912308; BKBR-0115591; CA-DOC 183726

Why The Large Percentage Drop for Sales in July Was Expected

2010-10-05T17:28:00.000-07:00

Why Home Sales Dropped Dramatically in July from June
Or
Why Were We Surprised When Buyers Were Incentivized?

In the week of August 23, blasted throughout the news was existing home sales nationally dropped 27% in July from June.

This was reported as the biggest monthly percentage decline on record.

The Greater Phoenix residential market faired slightly better with a 24% decrease. A large percentage drop in July sales was expected for Greater Phoenix.

Why The Large Percentage Drop for Sales in July Was Expected

Why did sales drop in July?

Because the affect of the tax credit(s) were worn out!

Many buyers bought because of the two tax credits:

The first time homebuyerís tax credit up to $8,000 and the move up buyerís tax credit up to $6,500.

To qualify buyers had to be under contract by April 30, 2010 and close by June 30 (at the end of June the close of escrow date was extended to September 30).

The April 30 deadline led to a surge of buyers going under contract in March and April.

So, before you believe the Headlines in the News....look at the statistics...it's not all doom and gloom!

Angels Real Estate Game On

2010-10-05T17:21:00.000-07:00

Angels RE Serving our community through Real Estate
"You Refer, We Donate."

The Angels are shining examples of the Philanthropic Realtors at The Williams Real Estate Company. Combining their passion for real estate, sports and community leadership has taken the philanthropic mission to a new level.

One of the Angels, Christina Catalano (Realtor, Triathlete and Community Leader), is a board member for Phoenix Womens Sports Association. Christina and her husband recently participated in Ironman Switzerland, and will be organizing a group of women to run the first Women's Half Marathon in Phoenix.

The Phoenix Women's Sports Association's mission it is to foster young women in sports, and to honor elite Arizona women Athletes and Award nominees.

Their annual 'Game On Event!' an exciting auction night was held at a historic school site, George Washing Carver Museum and Cultural Center with its beautiful historic gym decorated to the hilt as the setting for the event.

Angels RE has three great team members, Natasha Greenhalgh, Jennifer Noelani-Spenser and Christina.

They were fortunate to be a part of the event and invited Dan Williams, President and Founder of The Williams Real Estate Company; Thuy Pham, Designated Broker; and Barbara Bowers, Partner and President of The Williams Community Foundation, to their upbeat and fun annual evening celebration of women in sports who make a difference.

The event draws in local Arizona Olympians, Athletes and Physical Education Teachers who have served the Arizona community for their entire careers.

A tribute was paid to each of these outstanding women to acknowledge their impact on the many lives they have touched through sports. Young gals in sports and professional women athletes came together to carry on the integrity and spirit of sports.

The night was filled with a range of community donated auction items related to sports and much more. The "Angels" donated an iPad as the Raffle prize to help raise even more for PWSA. Raffle tickets could be purchased to play golf, throw hoops, and all for a really great cause. Fundraising goals were exceeded, as well as the expectations of every attendee.

It was a fun, philanthropic evening and they were proud to be a part of the event! ìIíve made it a mission to stay connected with women in sports because itís such a powerful tool for young women.

"Sports teaches so many good character qualities that continue a lifetime. This supports The Williams Real Estate Company mission of giving back! It is our pleasure to donate a sizable portion of our real estate endeavors back to our community through local charitable organizations," states Christina Catalano.

It must be working, because Angels RE is one of the most successful real estate teams at The Williams Real Estate Company!

Halos & Handbags | Boys & Girls Club | Sammy & Marlys

2010-09-09T20:13:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, May 1st, Sammy Glassman and Marlys Lazarus (Mother & Daughter Real Estate Team at The Williams Real Estate Company), joined Lisa Haffner, host of “Your Life A to Z” on KTVK-3TV, and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale for a fabulous afternoon of fashion, food, and fun at the 2nd annual Halos & Handbags luncheon and auction at the newly remodeled El Chorro Lodge in Paradise Valley.

Sammy Glassman & Marlys Lazarus

From clutches to carryalls, and from vintage to designer, event attendees had the opportunity to bid on more than 100 unique gift items and handbags. They enjoyed a sophisticated afternoon browsing through some of the most stylish handbags available from Coach, Fendi, Kate Spade, and many others.

Halos & Handbags is a celebration of one-of-a-kind vintage clothing and modern accessories with a special fashion show by Fashion by Robert Black – Phoenix fashion icon and former owner of FORD/Robert Black modeling agency.

This event raised more than $40,000 to support children and teens in our community.

Proceeds from Halos & Handbags are invested in the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale Angels for Kids, Mentors for Life campaign which benefits our more than 16,000 youth members.

Angels for Kids, Mentors for Life helps to support youth development programs for our Club kids and is built around five core areas: the arts, character & leadership development, education & career development, health & life skills, and sports,
fitness & recreation.

With the continued help of Real Estate Agents like Sammy & Marlys, The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale we can continue to provide a safe, positive place for our youth to go both after-school and during the summer.

ABOUT THE BOYS & GIRLS CLUB - http://www.bgcs.org/

Since 1954, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale has provided quality programs to Northeast Valley youth. In that time, more than 100,000 children and teens have been served. Today, more than 16,000 community youth ages 6 to 18 are served through the organization's nine branches and 12 outreach sites located in Scottsdale, Fountain Hills, Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, Hualapai Indian Community and other Northeast Valley neighborhoods.

The Club offers more than 100 quality after-school and summer programs in a positive, safe, supervised environment. Programs offered at the Club are built around five core areas: the arts, character & leadership development; education & career development; health & life skills; and sports, fitness & recreation.

Adopt-A-Family | Phoenix Day | Christmas 2009

2010-09-01T19:11:00.000-07:00

"Dear Davy,

You [Davy Yee, Realtor, The Williams Real Estate Company] and Thuy [Designated Broker, The Williams Real Estate Company] and the rest of the good folks at The Williams Real Estate Company, were instrumental in the success of Phoenix Day's 2009 Adopt-A- Family Program.

I took over the program in 2005, and at that time we were working with Make-a- Difference, which they are now known as HandsOn Greater Phoenix.

Their role was to get sponsors for the Adopt-a-Family Program and Phoenix Day would sign-up families in need that would benefit from being adopted for the holidays.

It was a wonderful collaboration and year after year we would have their support and many Phoenix Day and HealthLinks families benefited from this program.

Long story short, last year HandsOn told us they were unable to take on this project due to lack of staff and the demands of the project.

So what I turned to the Board Members for their assistance and support in helping me get sponsors for the 69 families that needed help. Needless to say, they were all very supportive and helped by adopting a family or recruiting their family, friends, co-workers to adopt a family.

But Davy, being the amazing person that you are, got your company [The Williams Real Estate Company] involved and hyped up this project!

Thanks to you and The Williams Real Estate Companyís support, 28 families had a wonderful Christmas!î

Bernice Medina
HealthLinks and Case Director
Phoenix Day

http://www.phoenixday.org/

At Phoenix Day, we believe that every child, no matter what their socio-economic background, deserves the highest quality early education program. Early childhood education empowers the way children think, learn and behave for the rest of their lives. Established in 1915, Phoenix Day provides a safe, nurturing and diverse environment with age-appropriate curriculum that promotes a lifetime of learning. We welcome you to explore our website and learn more about Arizona's oldest early education and childcare center.

2010-09-01T18:52:00.001-07:00

Handprints of Hope | Phoenix Children's Hospital

2010-09-01T06:30:00.001-07:00

Julia drew her dream home.

And now, thanks to a group of caring business leaders, her beautiful art will be sold for a donation and hung in a caring corporate donor’s office, which in turn benefits the very hospital which saved her life.

The Williams Real Estate Company and its founder, Daniel Williams, came up with the idea after having his own office walls adorned with Phoenix Children’s Hospital patient artwork.

Williams kicked-off a program and assembled a dedicated group of business leaders that will take PCH children’s art to a new level, creating a year round business-to-business fundraising opportunity for Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

For more than 23 years, the Art Project at Phoenix Children’s Hospital Foundation started with just greeting cards designed by young patients, only available during the holidays. All proceeds benefit the Hospital’s Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, helping fund medical and family support programs, research equipment, school re-entry programs, lodging at the Ronald McDonald House, and patient camps and retreats.

But, with funding cuts and hospital costs continually rising, the need for more creative and long-term fundraising endeavors are being created by committed Phoenix Children’s business leaders like Dan Williams.

“Our Real Estate Company is based on Philanthropy, and we always donate through every real estate transaction. Yet, there’s always more that can be done with business associates that I work with every day,” says Art Advisory Chairman, Williams.

Dan invited industry associate, Bill Rogers, President of Homeowners Financial Group to be the Co-Chairman of the business community “Art Advisory – Handprints of Hope”.

Together they launched an initial 50-member team of business leaders with a kick-off event at the W Hotel last July.

Business leaders will promote and sell “Handprints of Hope” artwork for PCH fundraising, while conducting their own daily business.

From City of Phoenix employees to business owners – each will help fundraise.

The Art Advisory goal is to raise $250,000, by selling framed PCH children’s art that ranges from $250 to $5000.

The large 5-piece format is for a collage of patient art, which also includes a tour of Phoenix Children’s, reception with the CEO, Bob Meyers, Foundation Directors and Doctors.

Proceeds benefit Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

Phoenix Children's Hospital has provided hope, healing, and the best healthcare for children and families since it was born in 1983. Today, Phoenix Children's is one of the ten largest children's hospitals in the country and provides specialty and sub-specialty inpatient, outpatient, trauma, and emergency care to patients throughout Arizona and other Southwestern states.

http://www.phoenixchildrens.com/

Adopt-A-Family | Christmas 2009 | Phoenix Day

2010-08-30T08:03:00.001-07:00

"Dear Davy…

You [Davy Yee, Realtor®, The Williams Real Estate Company] and Thuy [Designated Broker, The Williams Real Estate Company] and the rest of the good folks at The Williams Real Estate Company, were instrumental in the success of Phoenix Day’s 2009 Adopt-A- Family Program.

I took over the program in 2005, and at that time we were working with Make-a- Difference, which they are now known as HandsOn Greater Phoenix.

Their role was to get sponsors for the Adopt-a-Family Program and Phoenix Day would sign-up families in need that would benefit from being adopted for the holidays.

It was a wonderful collaboration and year after year we would have their support and many Phoenix Day and HealthLinks families benefited from this program.

Long story short, last year HandsOn told us they were unable to take on this project due to lack of staff and the demands of the project.

So what I turned to the Board Members for their assistance and support in helping me get sponsors for the 69 families that needed help. Needless to say, they were all very supportive and helped by adopting a family or recruiting their family, friends, co-workers to adopt a family.

But Davy, being the amazing person that you are, got your company [The Williams Real Estate Company] involved and hyped up this project!

Thanks to you and The Williams Real Estate Company’s support, 28 families had a wonderful Christmas!”

Bernice Medina
HealthLinks and Case Director
Phoenix Day

http://www.phoenixday.org/

Dan Williams Shares John Foltz's "10 Steps to Success" with TWREC Agents

2010-08-25T14:56:00.000-07:00

STEP 1: Take Time to See the BIG PICTURE...What "Success" Means to You

STEP 2: Set Realistic Goals for THIS YEAR

STEP 3: Put Time for YOU on your Calendar

STEP 4: Look Inside Yourself for Your Greatest Asset

STEP 5: ADOPT A SYSTEM for Marketing

STEP 6: Make a List of your "Helpful Army"

STEP 7: Craft Messages of Value to THE CLIENT

STEP 8: Commit to an ACCOUNTABILITY PARTNER or GROUP

STEP 9: Drop what isn't working and MOVE ON!

STEP 10: Celebrate EVERY Success.

Used Car Sales Tactics

2010-08-24T16:37:00.001-07:00

I thought the sleazy used car salesman was a thing of the past, until last week that is. We went out to buy a used car and it was like walking in to a time warp! It was so bad that I have to blog about it!

We already have a great used car dealership that we LOVE dealing with. However, they didn't have the color of the car my boyfriend wanted to buy with all the bells & whistles. He found one at another dealership in Tempe (which shall remain nameless). So, on a whim we decided to at least go look at it.

First, we set up an appointment with the Internet Manager. When we arrived, we shook hands and was escorted out to test drive the car. The salesman was knowledgeable but not overly so, and not very chatty or interactive whatsoever.

When we returned to his office, he went straight in to the used car salesman tactics of hard selling. He would never give us an answer without the 'have to check with my boss' routine, which meant he had to leave the room. When he came back he just began pointing out all the reasons why the current price was so great and that it was far below what one would typically pay on the street and that there wasn't much room to move, blah, blah, blah! Oh, and that it was scheduled to go to Auction soon.

Then he asked what it would take for us to buy the car right now... and when Karl began telling him what it would take to buy the car, the salesman immediately tried arguing each point (price, windshield chip, door scratch). Karl stopped him and reminded him kindly that he was answering the man's question and to let him finish.

Then the salesman-- AGAIN-- had to go 'check with his boss.' When he came back he said he would give us the car at the price we asked, would fix the windshield but not the door. And that we had to do the deal today, and wanted to know if we were ready. At that point I told him no, that we were going to go home and discuss it and would get back in touch with him, and when he started to speak I told him I was very educated in the art of sales and sales tactics and we would not be pushed.

This is the best part: he then told us that he had another appointment an hour later for that same car--- IMAGINE THAT! Now I am not saying it isn't possible, but when a used car salesman like this one tells you to look at the white board to show that he has another appointment after us,( which is easily fabricated if one chooses to fabricate), should we believe him? NO, and neither should you! Stay away from any slick salesman who tells you the deal is only valid 'until you walk out that door.' He continued with his hard tactics for a few more minutes before relenting and saying goodbye. BTW: 10 days later-- that car is STILL available!

We left- without the car... and we were so mad at the tactics employed that we drove straight back to our friend's used car dealership and worked with him afterall. Truth be told, I would have paid more money for less bells & whistles just to deal with reputable people-- but who would have ever thought they were still teaching those sleazy tactics in 2010?

We ended up in a totally different car altogether that we are much happier with AND paid less AND enjoyed the experience!
This is the 2nd vehicle we have had to purchase in less than 3 months and very, very happy with each experience. If you ever need to buy a used car (you should really never buy any car brand new), check out LeSueur Car Company-- family owned and operated. Chris and his family are awesome and down to earth! here's the link: http://www.usedvwaudi.com/ou/tempe-auto/

Top 10 Best Views of Camelback Mountain

2010-08-20T13:40:00.001-07:00

TOP 10 REAL ESTATE DEALS

We have analyzed the current marketplace and have selected the Top 10 Properties that offer the Greatest Value at the Best Price.

THIS WEEK'S FOCUS

The Best Views of Camelback Mountain

Paradise Valley, AZ

Homestead Ln

4 bedroom 5.5 bath 5451 sq. ft.

Single Family, Detached

$1,595,000($293/sq.ft.)

ROMANTIC ARCHITECTURE WITH EUROPEAN DETAILS
FABULOUS GATED ESTATE perfectly positioned w/ PRIVACY & Camelback/Praying Monk VIEWS. Romantic architecture w/European details; pillars (like Molina Jeweler's), grand foyer & beamed cathedral ceiling, 3 elegant canterra blt FP's, ample & exquisite newer Fruitwd & glass cabinetry, thick amber granite, antique chandeliers & clerestory wndws. Exceptionally well-built w/top qlty standards rarely seen. 2yr detailed prjct. Wonderful flrpln; grnd frml dining & lvng, inviting brkfast rm, expansive fam/greatrm & magnificent kit, wine/drink br, gallery, coved ceilings hallways, library, lux mstr ba & ste, gst rms, baths & office/den. Extraordinary pl,terraces, gazebo & outdr kit. Extended attached 3G + MASSIVE, SEPARATE OVERHEIGHT 6-8 CAR DETACHED GAR/HOBBY/SKILL/TALENT SPACE. Quick COE ok.

MLS#4272204 Russ Lyon Sotheby's Intl

Colonia Miramonte

3 bedroom 3.5 bath

3440 sq. ft.

Single Family, Detached

$1,995,000($580/sq.ft.)

NEW CONSTRUCTION

BUILT WITH THE HIGHEST QUALITY MATERIALSRESORT LIVING AT ITS BEST!
This newly constructed home is perfect for the Buyer looking for greater convenience without losing that luxurious, elegant lifestyle. Ideally located in the ìColonia Miramonteî neighborhood, where residents can socialize, relax and rejuvenate at the Cambelback Inn pool, spa and restaurants or enjoy the resort's room service in their own home. With breathtaking views of the City Lights, Camelback Mountain & Mummy Mountain, the 3 bedroom, 3.5 bath home offers an estimated 3,400 sq. feet of luxury that includes a 375 sq. ft. Guest Suite. A gourmet kitchen - with custom cabinets, Viking and Sub-Zero appliances and a pizza oven - extends to the dining/living area, flowing seamlessly to the sunny Patio..perfect for Alfresco Dining and Sunset Entertaining!

When this home is purchased, $10,000 will be donated to local Arizona Charities through the Williams Community Foundation

MLS#4353327 | The Williams Real Estate Co

Camino Del Contento

4 bedroom 4.5 bath

4596 sq. ft.

Single Family, Detached

$2,495,000($543/sq.ft.)

AUTHENTIC "TERRITORIAL STYLE" SIMILAR TO THE HERMOSA INN WITH A 700 SQ.FT. GUESTHOUSE
It is very rare for an authentic ìArizona Territorial Homeî of this quality to come on the market. With an architectural style similar to the Hermosa Inn, boasting magnificent views of the Praying Monk & Camelback Mountain and located in one of Paradise Valleyís most prestigious neighborhoods, this 1.2 acre residence exudes charm. Featuring a Hand-Carved Mesquite Front Door, Custom Gates, Private Courtyards, Adobe Walls, 5 fireplaces, Classic Saltillo Flooring, Cedar Latillas & Pine Vigas, this Masterpiece was highlighted in Phoenix Home & Garden Magazine for its beauty and authenticity. The quiet street, lush landscaping, pool, spa, and extraordinary views makes you feel as if you are in your own Private Sanctuary, even though you are just blocks from everything you need.

When this home is purchased, $10,000 will be donated to local Arizona Charities through the Williams Community Foundation

MLS#4392546 | The Williams Real Estate Co

Colonia Miramonte

3 bedroom 3.5 bath

3779 sq. ft.

Single Family, Detached

$2,200,000($582/sq.ft.)

SOFT CONTEMPORARY. DRAMA & DESIGNER QUALITY
DRAMA, VIEWS, DESIGNER QUALITY...ABSOLUTE PERFECTION! THIS INCREDIBLE HOME IS FOR YOUR MOST DISCRIMINATING BUYER LOOKING FOR THE FINEST FINISHES & A REAL SHOW STOPPER! 4 TELESCOPING WALLS OF GLASS OFFER TRUE INDOOR/OUTDOOR LIVING/ENTERTAINING. MAXIMUM CEILING HEIGHT, SPACIOUS/OPEN GREAT RM FLOOR PLAN, 4 FIREPLACES & 2 CUSTOM WATER FEATURES. TOP OF LINE KITCHEN EVERYTHING, MAPLE HARDWOOD FL, ANTIQUE DOORS, ONYX MASTER BATH, CUSTOM CLOSETS. 3 BR + DEN (INCLUDING GUEST HOUSE W/FULL KITCHEN). RM SERVICE FROM CB INN, WALK TO EL CHORRO/SPA, 24 HR GUARD GATE & 360 DEGREE VIEWS!! **FURNISHING AVAILABLE VIA SEP BILL OF SALE****A TRUE WORK OF ART!!!

MLS#4378504 | Coldwell Banker

East Nauni Valley Drive

4 bedroom 4.5 bath

4945 sq. ft.

Single Family, Detached

$2,900,000($586/sq.ft.)

HISTORIC AZ HOME ON A 2.26 ACRE LOT
Great Paradise VAlley location on a large 2.26 acre lot. Historic AZ home with views of both Camelback & Mummy mountain.

MLS#4391116 | New Home Brokers

East Marlette

4 bedroom 5.5 bath

13556 sq. ft.

Single Family, Detached

$2,995,000($221/sq.ft.)

SHORT SALE APPROVED. ONE OF THE BEST DEALS IN PARADISE VALLEY
*** APPROVED SHORT SALE *** Exceptional views of Camelback & Mummy Mountains! CAR LOVERS DREAM HOME!!! 2+ Acre Gated Estate, 7,100 SF Newly Remodeled Home & 6,456 SF new Garage w/workshop (16' ceiling). Private guest suites, updated security, 10 fireplaces, sport court, wine cellar, beam ceilings, etc. This is one of the nicest in P.V. This was a $10M +/- home. Docs tab coming soon for list of all amenities.

MLS#4438785 | Utterback Realty

East Arroyo Verde Drive

5 bedroom 6 bath

6505 sq. ft.

Single Family, Detached

$3,299,999($293/sq.ft.)

AWARDING WINNING HOME FOR THE ACTIVE LIFESTYLE
You will love this home for its interior design; its tranquil elegance and the joy of comfort it beholds. A sincere tribute to its enriched soft modern style; expertly orchestrated throughout this very functional floor plan. Savvy home buyers have always search for the right floor-plan to live a healthy active lifestyle. This award winning home offers just that. Europeans have paraphrased us as a 'distinctive classic'; we call it 'quality artistic-expression'. Offering convenience, endless outdoor amenities', oversize back yard space and including a grand swimming pool under a clean mountain-air breeze. Experience the character and warmth, the nobility and beauty seldom seen all together complimenting one another here today.

MLS#4337884 | Russ Lyon Sotheby's Intl

East Valley Vista Ln

6 bedroom 8 bath

8900 sq. ft.

Single Family, Detached

$3,950,000($444/sq.ft.)

A PALACE!
A PALACE! DESIGNED AND BUILT WITH THE HIGHEST QUALITY AND MOST EFFICIENT FEATURES, GRADES, AND FINISHES. FIVE BEDROOMS PLUS FULL GUEST QUARTERS, WITH A TOTAL OF EIGHT BATHROOMS, DEN, THEATRE ROOM WITH UNIQUE FIBER OPTIC STARLIGHT CEILING, EXERCISE ROOM, BUTLER PANTRY, AND WINE ROOM. WOOD CLAD PELLA WINDOWS, FAMILY ROOM WITH POWERED POCKET DOOR TO LOOK AT AMAZING VIEW OF CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN. DESIGNED WITH ARCHITECTURAL DETAILS OF GROIN VAULT, DOMED, SOFFITED, ROPED LIGHTING IN THE CEILINGS. STONE WORK INCLUDES COLUMNS AND FIRE PLACE MANTLES OF CANTERRA STONE. APPLIANCES BY VIKING, DACOR, AND ASKO. MARBLE AND WOOD FLOORING , WITH COUNTER TOPS OF GRANITE. ONE OF, IF NOT THE MOST AMAZING NEW HOMES IN PARADISE VALLEY.

MLS#4400986 | LoRo Realty Group

North Hogahn

4 bedroom 5.5 bath

8700 sq. ft.

Single Family, Detached

$9,550,000($1,097/sq.ft.)

MANHATTAN + HOLLYWOOD + PARADISE VALLEY! = THIS RARE $14M OPPORTUNITY = PRICELESS!
DO YOU WANT SOMETHING THAT NO ONE ELSE WILL HAVE? CHIC, SOPHISTICATED, ELEGANT SOFT CONTEMPORARY MASTERPIECE (11,000 SQ. FT. UNDER ROOF) EXQUISITELY PLACED ON 3.8 ACRES OF PRIME VIEW LANDSCAPE IN THE HEART OF PARADISE VALLEY. LOOK NO FURTHER IF YOU ARE SEARCHING FOR PRIVACY, SECURITY, QUALITY, GLAMOUR AND THE UTMOST IN LUXURIOUS AMENITIES! THIS AGELESS HOME IS ARCHITECTURALLY SIGNIFICANT AND OFFERS TIMELESS SURROUNDINGS AS YOU OVERLOOK THE BREATHTAKING MOUNTAIN VIEWS AND CITY LIGHTS OF ARIZONA. THE FINEST CUSTOM FINISHES WITH NO DETAIL OVERLOOKED. $1M IN FURNISHINGS AVAILABLE. COME & ENJOY THE ROMANCE AND THE SECLUDED NATURE OF THIS LEGACY ESTATE. STRATEGIC OPPORTUNITY TO OWN THE BEST!!! REDUCED FROM $16m

MLS#4329176 | Realty Executives

East Arroyo Road

7 bedroom 10 bath

16087 sq. ft.

Single Family, Detached

$9,985,000($621/sq.ft.)

EXQUISITELY CONSTRUCTED

NEW HOME
Rare opportunity to own an exquisitely constructed new home in prime heart of Paradise Valley. Top it off with unparalled views of Camelback Mtn. and Phoenix city skyline. Enter on the main floor where grand scale great room features walls of glass to views. Master,library and 4 secondary bedrooms all on the same floor. Kitchen has everything imaginable and more. Down, game room, media room, additional office,guest quarters, housekeepers quarters. Custom cabinetry thru-out. Pool and lush landscape adds 5 Star resort luxury. Call for full fact sheet or review supplement and virtual tour.

MLS#4271490 | Russ Lyon Sotheby's Intl

Buy Now and Save $577,000

2010-08-20T13:36:00.000-07:00

"We simply attempt to be fearful when others are greedy and to be greedy only when others are fearful." Warren Buffett

With the economy in disarray, Mick and Kelly are uncertain about making a large purchase...in fact, it could be the largest purchase of their lives, a $1.5 million home.

But with the real estate market in the dumps and the persistent recession, they're not sure if now is a good time to buy.

If they follow the philosophy of Warren Buffett, the Oracle of Omaha, then now is the best time in their lives to purchase this home.

Let's break down why this is.

Mick and Kelly are selling their current home and will use the proceeds plus some savings for a $600,000 down payment.

They will need a $900,000 mortgage to complete the purchase of the $1.5 million home.

They think that rates will rise in the future, so they choose a 30 year fixed mortgage at 5.5% (current rate for a 30 year Jumbo loan, yes...Jumbo Loans are available!).

The monthly principal plus interest payment is $5,110.

If Mick and Kelly decide to wait a couple of years to see if home prices have bottomed, what might happen?

We will only know that prices have bottomed after they rise.

So a couple of years later, they can buy the same home for $1.6 million (a modest 3% annual increase).

And the economy has slowly improved so interest rates are higher as well.

Let's say interest rates have risen to 7.5% (a more average historical rate, but not bad).

Now they need a $1 million loan at a higher interest rate. The principal plus interest payment in this scenario is $6,992...up $1,882 per month!

Over the life of the mortgage, that is an extra $577,520 in extra interest alone. Who wants to pay that?

Of course I can't predict what interest rates or home prices will be in two years, but a 3% annual increase in prices and an extra 2% in interest rates are well within reason.

Many experts agree that interest rates are at their bottom right now.

My point is.....that now is an unbelievable buying opportunity, so don't let it pass you by.

Chris Mozilo | NMLS# 183726; AZ LO-0912308; BKBR-0115591; CA-DOC 183726

Luxury Sales Bounce Back

2010-08-20T13:34:00.000-07:00

For years, Jennifer Metz and her husband John yearned for a bigger home in San Francisco. Three months ago, the couple started looking, figuring that in this shaky economy, their $3 million budget should provide them a pick of attractive homes and accommodating sellers.

..They were wrong.

Hours after seeing a 5,000-square-foot fixer-upper in Presidio Heights with an asking price around $2.7 million, the Metzes put in a bid and lost. Soon after, they made another offer on a four-bedroom in Russian Hill. Their bid was rejected.

Last week, the Metzes rushed over to a large, dilapidated home in Pacific Heights that needed a lot of work but was asking the (relatively) low price of $2.25 million. The Metzes put in their over-ask bid the next day, but lost that one too: There were nine offers; the winning bid was $2.56 million.

Associate, Linda Mras, 100 Club

2010-08-20T13:25:00.000-07:00

Supporter Spotlight for The 100 Club
with Linda Mras of
The Williams Real Estate Company

1. How did you first get involved with the 100 Club?

I was first introduced to the 100 Club when my son was training to become a Police Officer. A volunteer spoke on his last day of training at the Police Academy after we had viewed the facility. I remember being ecstatic and proud that my son had decided to become an officer that day and also elated to see how excited he was, however I wasnít prepared for a presentation by the 100 Club.

As the presenter spoke and I watched the film my happiness was succumbed. As tears rolled down my face, reality set in and I realized the serious commitment that my son had made. He or any of his fellow officers could have their lives taken away in an instant or be injuredÖ then what? Who would help them? Who would help their families?

At the end of the presentation membership forms were passed out for anyone who might be interested in joining the 100 Club. I knew that our family had to sign up immediately.

2. What has surprised you the most about working with the 100 Club?

The dedication of the staff, volunteers and supporters. I am amazed at how quick they act when the need arises. Also, all of the creative events that they do to raise funds and how thankful they are to the volunteers and contributors.

3. What was the last 100 Club event you volunteered for? And how did that make you feel?

I volunteered for the Gambo and Ash Holiday Hero's Event that was hosted by KTAR. That day the 100 Club Staff and the volunteers had there adrenaline pumped up which was so exhilarating to me. It felt good to hear the phones ring non-stop in support of our Public Safety Workers. I was so happy to be a part of it.

4. What do you wish other people knew about the 100 Club?

I wished that they knew the 100 Club is a financial first responder for our fallen or injured public safety officers.

5. How else do you support the 100 Club and why?

After becoming a member and then a volunteer I knew that if my son or his fellow officers ever needed assistance that the 100 Club would be there for them. Helping to support the 100 Club through my Real Estate endeavors is my way of giving back.

My real estate broker (The Williams Real Estate Company) works with us to donate a portion of proceeds for every transaction that is referred by the 100 Club - a win-win to increase funding for the club and the families it serves.

6. When your friends/family find out that you volunteer at the 100 Club, what do they say or ask?

When I tell my friends and family that I am a member and volunteer of the 100 Club, they usually ask , "The 100 Club? what do they do?" Of course, I always explain and hope that they want to become involved.

7. Tell me about someone who has influenced your decision to work with the 100 Club?

I believe my decision was influenced and finalized by attending the Jason Schechterle Scholarship Ball last Fall and also getting to know all of the amazing people who are a part of the 100 Club.

8. What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering or donating to the 100 Club?

Just do it! Your support will have a huge impact.

9. What do you do when you aren't volunteering for the 100 Club?

Exercise and seek every opportunity that I can to dance the night away to Frank Sinatra tunes.

10. What might someone be surprised to know about you?

I have a passion to find solutions to help others.

Angels RE Game

2010-08-20T11:49:00.000-07:00

Angels RE Serving our community through Real Estate
"You Refer, We Donate."

One of the Angels, Christina Catalano (Realtor, Triathlete and Community Leader), is a board member for Phoenix Womens Sports Association. Christina and her husband recently participated in Ironman Switzerland, and will be organizing a group of women to run the first Women's Half Marathon in Phoenix.

The Phoenix Womenís Sports Association's mission it is to foster young women in sports, and to honor elite Arizona women Athletes and Award nominees.

Their annual ìGame On Event!î an exciting auction night was held at a historic school site, George Washing Carver Museum and Cultural Center with its beautiful historic gym decorated to the hilt as the setting for the event.

Angels RE has three great team members, Natasha Greenhalgh, Jennifer Noelani-Spenser and Christina.

They were fortunate to be a part of the event and invited Dan Williams, President and Founder of The Williams Real Estate Company; Thuy Pham, Designated Broker; and Barbara Bowers, Partner and President of The Williams Community Foundation, to their upbeat and fun annual evening celebration of women in sports who make a difference.

The event draws in local Arizona Olympians, Athletes and Physical Education Teachers who have served the Arizona community for their entire careers.

A tribute was paid to each of these outstanding women to acknowledge their impact on the many lives they have touched through sports. Young gals in sports and professional women athletes came together to carry on the integrity and spirit of sports.

The night was filled with a range of community donated auction items related to sports and much more. The ìAngelsî donated an iPad as the Raffle prize to help raise even more for PWSA. Raffle tickets could be purchased to play golf, throw hoops,Ö and all for a really great cause. Fundraising goals were exceeded, as well as the expectations of every attendee.

It was a fun, philanthropic evening and they were proud to be a part of the event! ìIíve made it a mission to stay connected with women in sports because itís such a powerful tool for young women.

Sports teaches so many good character qualities that continue a lifetime. This supports The Williams Real Estate Company mission of giving back! It is our pleasure to donate a sizable portion of our real estate endeavors back to our community through local charitable organizations.î states Christina Catalano.

It must be working, because Angels RE is one of the most successful real estate teams at The Williams Real Estate Company!

100 Club of Arizona Features Linda Mras in Newsletter

2010-08-19T17:46:00.000-07:00

Supporter Spotlight for The 100 Club
with Linda Mras of
The Williams Real Estate Company

1. How did you first get involved with the 100 Club?

I was first introduced to the 100 Club when my son was training to become a Police Officer. A volunteer spoke on his last day of training at the Police Academy after we had viewed the facility. I remember being ecstatic and proud that my son had decided to become an officer that day and also elated to see how excited he was, however I wasn’t prepared for a presentation by the 100 Club.

As the presenter spoke and I watched the film my happiness was succumbed. As tears rolled down my face, reality set in and I realized the serious commitment that my son had made. He or any of his fellow officers could have their lives taken away in an instant or be injured… then what? Who would help them? Who would help their families?

At the end of the presentation membership forms were passed out for anyone who might be interested in joining the 100 Club. … I knew that our family had to sign up immediately.

2. What has surprised you the most about working with the 100 Club?

The dedication of the staff, volunteers and supporters. I am amazed at how quick they act when the need arises. Also, all of the creative events that they do to raise funds and how thankful they are to the volunteers and contributors.

3. What was the last 100 Club event you volunteered for? And how did that make you feel?

I volunteered for the Gambo and Ash Holiday Hero’s Event that was hosted by KTAR. That day the 100 Club Staff and the volunteers had there adrenaline pumped up which was so exhilarating to me. It felt good to hear the phones ring non-stop in support of our Public Safety Workers. I was so happy to be a part of it.

4. What do you wish other people knew about the 100 Club?

I wished that they knew the 100 Club is a financial first responder for our fallen or injured public safety officers.

My real estate broker (The Williams Real Estate Company) works with us to donate a portion of proceeds for every transaction that is referred by the 100 Club – a win-win to increase funding for the club and the families it serves.

6. When your friends/family find out that you volunteer at the 100 Club, what do they say or ask?

When I tell my friends and family that I am a member and volunteer of the 100 Club, they usually ask “The 100 Club…what do they do?”. Of course, I always explain and hope that they want to become involved.

7. Tell me about someone who has influenced your decision to work with the 100 Club?

I believe my decision was influenced and finalized by attending the Jason Schechterle Scholarship Ball last Fall and also getting to know all of the amazing people who are a part of the 100 Club.

8. What would you tell someone who is thinking about volunteering or donating to the 100 Club?

Just do it! Your support will have a huge impact.

9. What do you do when you aren’t volunteering for the 100 Club?

Exercise and seek every opportunity that I can to dance the night away to Frank Sinatra tunes.

10. What might someone be surprised to know about you?

I have a passion to find solutions to help others.

Angels RE | Game ON! | Phoenix Women's Sports Association

2010-08-18T17:43:00.000-07:00

Angels RE Serving our community through Real Estate
"You Refer, We Donate."

One of the Angels, Christina Catalano (Realtor, Triathlete and Community Leader), is a board member for Phoenix Womens Sports Association. Christina and her husband recently participated in Ironman Switzerland, and will be organizing a group of women to run the first Women's Half Marathon in Phoenix.

The Phoenix Women’s Sports Association's mission it is to foster young women in sports, and to honor elite Arizona women Athletes and Award nominees.

Their annual “Game On Event!” an exciting auction night was held at a historic school site, George Washing Carver Museum and Cultural Center with its beautiful historic gym decorated to the hilt as the setting for the event.

Angels RE has three great team members, Natasha Greenhalgh, Jennifer Noelani-Spenser and Christina.

They were fortunate to be a part of the event and invited Dan Williams, President and Founder of The Williams Real Estate Company; Thuy Pham, Designated Broker; and Barbara Bowers, Partner and President of The Williams Community Foundation, to their upbeat and fun annual evening celebration of women in sports who make a difference.

The event draws in local Arizona Olympians, Athletes and Physical Education Teachers who have served the Arizona community for their entire careers.

A tribute was paid to each of these outstanding women to acknowledge their impact on the many lives they have touched through sports. Young gals in sports and professional women athletes came together to carry on the integrity and spirit of sports.

The night was filled with a range of community donated auction items related to sports and much more. The “Angels” donated an iPad as the Raffle prize to help raise even more for PWSA. Raffle tickets could be purchased to play golf, throw hoops,… and all for a really great cause. Fundraising goals were exceeded, as well as the expectations of every attendee.

It was a fun, philanthropic evening and they were proud to be a part of the event! “I’ve made it a mission to stay connected with women in sports because it’s such a powerful tool for young women.

Sports teaches so many good character qualities that continue a lifetime. This supports The Williams Real Estate Company mission of giving back! It is our pleasure to donate a sizable portion of our real estate endeavors back to our community through local charitable organizations.” states Christina Catalano.

It must be working, because Angels RE is one of the most successful real estate teams at The Williams Real Estate Company!

Christmas in July | Money Raised for St. Mary's Foodbank & Phoenix Children's Hospital

2010-08-14T09:17:00.001-07:00

Only through The Williams Real Estate Company and lovely Realtor®, Jennifer Dana- Sheedy, could anyone pull off a Grand Open House in 115 degrees in July - with guests wearing Christmas Holiday wear and Santa plus his elf’s gathering for photos in full garb!

In a June 2009 brainstorming around the big conference table at TWREC, someone suggested holding a Paradise Valley listing “Celebration Home” in July, with a holiday theme and give back to Phoenix Children’s Hospital and St. Mary’s Food Bank.

That was it – toys for the kids and water for the Food Bank -as it was one of the hottest seasons’ on record.

It’s the way we roll… at The Williams Real Estate Company....a Luxury Listing deserves full attention.

The donations poured in. So did the guests! Brilliant and fun!

The word spread fast through the Real Estate Community and by invitation weeks’ end, several companies offered in-kind donations, from wine and food to professional musicians playing Christmas carols!

Rob Kanyur of NOVA Home Loans was gracious to bring lots of water and food, as well as HOPE Wines donated their wines as it was a charity event.

Even new Agents with The Williams Real Estate Company, Kevin Horikami and Mark Sumstine, jumped into the festivities and came to work in their holiday tuxedo’s.

Now that’s the special spirit at TWREC!

Guests strolled in - non-stop - for hours. Cars were parked up and down McDonald Drive in front of the luxury home, and by the count at the end of the evening, over 250 guests enjoyed music, holiday food (including home baked cookies!) and beautiful decorations throughout the magnificent home. The guests lingered in sweltering heat, and may never forget this special “Celebration Home” event.

“We had no idea how many guests, agents, friends or vendors would actually attend, but the response was enormous. And, those who didn’t attend literally sent over checks to donate to both Phoenix Children's Hospital and St. Mary’s Food Bank!” says proud realtor, Jennifer Dana-Sheedy.

The best part is saved for last. After all was said and done – that Paradise Valley luxury home sold in 3 weeks! The exposure was even more than donated water and toys for those in need.

The Williams Real Estate Company has created a way for families to move on with their lives, helping others in the process and giving their agents a philanthropic platform to feel good about their business. TWREC Karma. Win-Win-Win!

TWREC Replaces Tricycles at Phoenix Day

2010-08-11T12:13:00.000-07:00

Thank You Note & "Friendship Wreaths" from the Children at Phoenix Day.
This is hanging on the wall at The Williams Real Estate Company office.

The first day The Williams Real Estate Company was introduced to the Arizona based 94-year old non-profit, which serves the inner-city working poor, Phoenix Day, … will not be forgotten by the kids whom they serve.

Dan Williams, Founder and President of The Williams Real Estate Company was invited to tour Phoenix Day by a board member, Tracy Decker, a local business leader and partner at the national firm, BDO Seidman, LLP.

She and Dan attended a networking event hosted by the Phoenix Business Journal. After talking at length with him and learning about his unique mission to create an Arizona Real Estate Company that donated to local charities upon every successful transaction, Tracey immediately seized the opportunity to ask him to tour Phoenix Day, where she is Vice President of the Board.

The tour was memorable in many ways.

The organization is operationally sound, the kids are well taken care of and educated daily by highly qualified early childhood development professionals, as well as Executives who run the non-profit administrative and fundraising.

"Friendship Wreaths" from the Children at Phoenix Day.
This is hanging on the wall at The Williams Real Estate Company office.

The building is a hub of activity with colorful kid’s artwork, projects, sleeping rooms and even donated computers where older children may get their start in technology.

They are constantly looking for funding as the recession looms, considering the extensive funding cuts as well as many companies who support Phoenix Day have pulled back donations.

The poorest families may bring their children there in order that they can go to work daily and have childcare. They pay what they can and it’s a commitment of care.

“We’re so happy you met Tracey and we have to apologize that we are a little distracted today, because outside – we have a play area for the kids, and last night, a brand new group of bicycles were stolen!...and as you can see, the wall is high but they went over it anyway,” exclaimed their Executive Director.

"Friendship Wreaths" from the Children at Phoenix Day.
This is hanging on the wall at The Williams Real Estate Company office.

It didn’t stop Dan Williams. He had a plan.

Upon leaving the tour and meeting all the wonderful people at Phoenix Day, a handshake by Dan and their Executive Director cemented The Williams Real Estate Company’s long-term relationship with Phoenix Day.

As Dan walked to the door, the Director went back to her office and Dan paused,… turned around and went up to the front desk. There, he silently pulled out his checkbook and wrote out a check, folded it and said quietly,… “Next time, buy 2 sets and hide! one set!”.Realtor®, Davy Yee, was brought on board as a Real Estate Agent from TWREC, and she has embraced Phoenix Day from inception – now, becoming a member of their Board!

Thank You Note from the Children at Phoenix Day.
This is hanging on the wall at The Williams Real Estate Company office.

At Phoenix Day, we believe that every child, no matter what their socio-economic background, deserves the highest quality early education program. Early childhood education empowers the way children think, learn and behave for the rest of their lives.

Established in 1915, Phoenix Day provides a safe, nurturing and diverse environment with age-appropriate curriculum that promotes a lifetime of learning.

We welcome you to explore our website and learn more about Arizona's oldest early education and childcare center.

More about Phoenix Day>>

Draw Your Dreamhome | Phoenix Children's Hospital

2010-08-09T08:22:00.000-07:00

The Williams Real Estate Company was founded on philanthropy. It started with Phoenix Children’s Hospital and the young patients and families they serve.

In keeping with the core mission of “Growing Our Community...One Home at a Time”, Dan Williams saw an opportunity to bring smiles to the kids at PCH, and to the faces of those who visit their corporate headquarters in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Rather than put up just any corporate art in newly opened offices of The Williams Real Estate Company, Dan Williams and Thuy Pham, Owners, decided to make real artists out of the children at Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

They sat bedside and asked the kids to draw their dream houses. These colorful and fun pieces were then hung as original artwork, which adorned the new headquarters of Arizona’s most philanthropic real estate company.

Dan, Thuy and young leukemia cancer patient, Gabriel, 8-years old, put on their germ masks and proceeded to work together with crayons in hand to capture his idea of the perfect family house – kitchen, “Angel's room” and bedrooms for he and his siblings.

Dan and Thuy made a significant donation for all of the artwork created by the kids at Phoenix Children's Hospital - truly making them real commissioned artists!

Phoenix Children's Hospital has provided hope, healing, and the best healthcare for children and families since it was born in 1983. Today, Phoenix Children's is one of the ten largest children's hospitals in the country and provides specialty and sub-specialty inpatient, outpatient, trauma, and emergency care to patients throughout Arizona and other Southwestern states.

http://www.phoenixchildrens.com/

"1 Million Wishes" | $1M Pledge to Phoenix Children's Hospital

2010-08-04T17:02:00.000-07:00

Dan Williams, Scottsdale Mayor W.J. "Jim"Lane, Thuy Pham

The audience of 300 community leaders, realtors, volunteers, hospital executives, friends and family gasped when Dan Williams, President of The Williams Real Estate Company surprised the onlookers by pledging $1million dollars to Phoenix Children’s Hospital at the Grand Opening of his new company in April 2009.
“I’ve been looking forward to this moment for a long time, states Dan.

Our new real estate company is going to buck the trend of negative real estate news by action and not just words.

We’ve already donated over a quarter of a million dollars to local charities and our plans are to raise our company donation level to $100,000 per month.

“In a market where consolidation of real estate offices plague the Valley, the new real estate model developed by Dan Williams is creating a positive buzz about their philanthropic foundation of “Growing Our Community,… One Home at a Time.”

Every real estate transaction has a donation built-in for a local Valley charity. In the first 120 days since opening its doors, The Williams Real Estate Company has attracted 25 new Valley agents who share the same vision of doing good while doing their real estate business.

Since creating this concept years ago, Dan Williams own business has sky rocketed “just by giving back”.

“For years, I’ve been asked to move to firms because of my production levels, and I interviewed them. Nothing came close to Dan Williams and his vision for The Williams Real Estate Company. It’s amazing to blend your business with the community and feel rewarded on both fronts.” States Susan Roberts, Realtor® with TWREC.

Williams plans to hire 50 more Valley agents in 2010 with his new program and to train those agents to build their business with a charity in mind.

Many Arizona charities are starting to hear about the program and meeting with Williams to align with one of their agents.

Recently, The Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC) held its annual Foundation Breakfast where Dan Williams and Denise Resnick, Founder, met to learn more about The Williams Real Estate Company’s format to help Valley Charities.

Denise Resnick invited his company to tour their offices and new training facility to learn first-hand about how both of their organizations could benefit by working together.

Dan Williams says, “This is a long term mission that our agents and their clients can embrace every time they work together. Agents are encouraged to select a non-profit organization based on their own personal passion.”

We Are In The Light Tower At Phoenix Children's Hospital

2010-08-04T16:34:00.000-07:00

After The Williams Real Estate Company made its first donation to The Phoenix Children's Hospital, Dan Williams was taking a tour of PCH, meeting all of the wonderful Doctors and patients.

When he went through the "Light Tower", he saw names like Senator John McCain, The Goldwater family, Jake Plummer, Mike Tyson and huge corporations.

Dan gasped at the size of the donation amount.

Later that day, Dan asked Bob Meyer, President & CEO of Phoenix Children's Hospital, "How did all those wonderful people get on the wall?"

Bob stated that they were Phoenix Children's Hospital's largest donors.

At that moment Dan knew he wanted to be someone who contributed at that level and he told Bob Meyer, jokingly (because it seemed so far out of reach), "Give me 20 years and I will be a donor of that significance!"

5 years later The Williams Real Estate Company is very proud and honored to have its name in the Light Tower at The Phoenix Children's Hospital.

Learn More: Phoenix Children's Hospital