Blog
N. Mark Kramoltz, JD, GRI, CIPS writes blog articles on the metro Phoenix, Arizona, national and global real estate markets. Written from his perspective as a designated broker and real estate attorney, his articles avoid the inaccuracies and vacuous industry propaganda common to most real estate writings. He also blogs about animals (mostly dogs in the military) due to his love of pets and military history.
Will an ADU’s Value Offset its Cost?
Accessory dwelling units, also known as casitas in the Phoenix metro area, are in the news because they have been “legalized” in Arizona in an effort to ease the housing affordability and inventory crisis. ADU construction has been on the rise since the pandemic,...
Bathroom Refresh Ideas, Part 1.
Home buyers prefer updated bathrooms. And bathrooms get a lot of use, so can get shabby and tired. You could do a complete remodel, but what if that isn’t needed or one isn’t in your budget? Here are six ideas: Repaint. Never a bad idea for any room - you might want...
Maricopa County Tops for Economic Development, Part 2.
This isn't the first time the Valley has landed at the top of the rankings for economic growth. The Site Selection county survey cited in Part 1 follows recent reports that have listed the Phoenix market as the top in the U.S. for industrial and manufacturing. Since...
Cats as Trench Mates in WW1.
During the First World War some soldiers in the front lines sought out the assistance and comfort of four-legged friends. Cats, dogs, foxes, goats, lion cubs, and even raccoons also served soldiers as pets and mascots throughout the war. Some animals, such as dogs...
Get Paid to Remove Your Grass Update.
Phoenix recently allocated money to encourage you replace your lawn. The Grass Removal Program pays $2 per square foot of grass removed. Unlike similar city programs (detailed previously in Get Paid to Remove Your Grass), you are paid in cash and not by a credit to...
2024 Metro Phoenix Housing Kudos.
Valley of the Sun cities finished high in many 2024 lists relating to housing and quality of life. Scottsdale: sixth best place in the U.S. to retire and the 10th happiest city; Queen Creek: Best small Arizona city and 72nd most affordable; Gilbert: sixth out of 180...
Arizona has some of the Lowest Energy Costs.
WalletHub analyzed energy costs for every state in the country using a formula that takes into account monthly costs for electricity, natural gas, gasoline and diesel and home heating oil. Arizona ranked 49th in the country - meaning it’s the second cheapest state in...
Where are Do-it-Yourself Movers From?
Net migration into the Phoenix metro area has remained strong for years. But where are these people coming from? According to U-Haul, through July 1, 2024, Californians using their trucks have supplied the most new Arizona residents. Second was Texas, then Colorado...
Live in an Office Building? Part 2.
Arizona doesn’t have enough new housing units, but like all states has vacant office and retail complexes that could be repurposed as apartments. Arizona lawmakers have recognized this possibility and have eased requirements that have hindered this type of...