Scottsdale N. Scottsdale questions... (Phoenix, Paradise Valley: apartment complex, rentals, condo)

[GirlinAZ]

Originally Posted by ivanabacowboy

Condos converted from apartments have no more likelihood than any other building to have mold so I am not sure where you got that information? And in fact I can tell you most of those recently converted buildings are probably LESS likely to have mold. I work in lending-we finance the folks who do condo conversions. Any decent lender requires mold studies BEFORE financing the conversion and requires that any issues identified are remedied. Whereas there is not that same level of diligence on mold in residential single-family lending or even brand new construction. And definitely new construction CAN have mold issues. We were refinancing some under construction buildings. Out of the 20 or so buildings, only 2 were completed and had just been completed and issued their Certificate of Occupancy less than 30 days before we closed the transaction. Both had big mold issues that we made them gut and clean up.

This was told to me by an apartment manager who works with a company that does the conversions. This is not my opinion, but hers.

[GirlinAZ]

Originally Posted by RetiredCop

Thanks Nana, I have been primarily looking in N. Scottsdael...85255 zip code. Nana, do you know of any names of gated communities that you can pass along to me so I can look into them here from NY and then schedule some viewings?

To be honest, I don't know 85255 as well as my own zip of 85254 as far as recommendations are concerned. I also think that area that has more single family homes than condos. (Although there are definately some for sure.) You also didn't mention your price range you were seeking. I would think that nothing under 300k would be available in that zip for anything with 2+ bedrooms (plus or minus). I would say that you should probably rent short term until you can find what you are seeking. I really would. You may end up not liking this area. Not sure if this matters to you or not, but it does to me: there are a lot of right wingers/conservatives/republicans whatever word you like to use that live in this area. To some people it makes no difference. To me, I find that it defines the way you look at life and the way you treat others (your political views, that is). You may be one of them, and it would be great for you. I am quite unhappy living amongst so many of them as I am not in agreement with their views in life. [DO NOT REPLY OTHERS WITH ANY HATE AS THIS IS A PERSONAL OPINION AND NOT MEANT TO CHANGE THIS THREAD TO POLITICS.] Anyway, I find that it bugs the crap out of me, and if it is something that would bug you-you may wish to think of other areas in town (or a different town altogether). I also have a feeling that home prices may drop. I have no scientific data or any other data, but just a gut feeling and am waiting myself to buy for another year. As this is an opinion posting, I thank you for allowing my opinion.

[sirwinston73]

Originally Posted by RetiredCop

Although, I am retired I am still young (36) and single. I retired after I suffered an injury as a NYC cop. I am looking to buy into a gated community (condo) in Scottsdale. First off, can anyone here give me some information on some nice gated communities in Scottsdale/N. Scottsdale areas. Like I said I am 36 and single so I want to live somewhere near where there is a younger crowd and great night life.

You really need to spend a lot more time in Scottsdale and then you'll realize it's not for you.

North Scottsdale is older and some communities (like Troon in particular) are mostly 70+ retirees.

South Scottsdale has the area's "nightlife" (you won't think so coming from NYC - it's more like going out in Westchester), and it's basically a glorified college scene with almost every under 25 or trying to look like it - remember ASU is only 3 miles from there.

My girlfriend and I left Arizona because we're very social, but Scottsdale and the Phoenix area in general offer only two types of social life: Under 25, and over 60. If you're 36 (I'm 34) you will hate it.

I lived there 7 years so if you want details feel free to PM me. Me and my girl are both from the NYC area and in fact her brother is a new NYPD recruit!

[sirwinston73]

Originally Posted by RetiredCop

Thanks Nana, I have been primarily looking in N. Scottsdael...85255 zip code. Nana, do you know of any names of gated communities that you can pass along to me so I can look into them here from NY and then schedule some viewings?

I used to live in 85255 and my girlfriend has relatives up there. I don't know your lifestyle but if you live up there, plan on never going out and generally being remote from everything. Also, the demographics up there are a much, much older crowd and practially no people in your age group.

Scottsdale (like much of Florida) is a big 70+ retiree community and why you want to move up to 85255 at 36 boggles my mind.

[GirlinAZ]

Originally Posted by sirwinston73

I used to live in 85255 and my girlfriend has relatives up there. I don't know your lifestyle but if you live up there, plan on never going out and generally being remote from everything. Also, the demographics up there are a much, much older crowd and practially no people in your age group.

Scottsdale (like much of Florida) is a big 70+ retiree community and why you want to move up to 85255 at 36 boggles my mind.

I have to slightly disagree with this. That area is older. I agree with that. However, I disagree with the retiree statement. Scottsdale is a big place and has lots of families and young people. Perhaps it has been awhile since you were here? Or perhaps you meant that zip code (which I still disagree with as there are many families that live in that area-my mother has a home there.) I am not challenging you, I am just stating a differing opinion.

[RetiredCop]

SirWinston, thank you for youre insight. As far as the NYPD recriut goes, wish him luck. Being a NYC cop is a thankless job. NYC has become a very liberal city and it is difficult for conservatives, like myself to stomach it. That is one reason I would love to get out. Seems like real estate is dropping everywhere, except w/in the 5 boroughs of this city...another reason I want out.

I also think I wil revisit buying in Scottsdale in about 6 months. I also think the prices should be comming down a bit more.

[SpeedyAZ]

I live in 85255 and there are TONS of families living in the area. Of course there are wealthy retirees but you'll find those in any community in Scottsdale. I generally find that most families that move to 85255 want a more secluded lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of a big city yet still be able to have a reasonable commute into Phoenix. The singles crowd isn't as large as what you'll find in Tempe or S. Scottsdale but that's ok with me. Most singles (including myself) who live here are a bit more private and reserved than those in other parts of the Valley and don't necessarily want to be in the middle of it all.

I think Scottsdale will be just great for you.

[RetiredCop]

Speedy thats fine. I really don't care about being in the hustle. I would be content being a short drive from all the fun. I want to buy into a community where there are young residnets...single or couples is fine.

[RetiredCop]

I recently had the chance to visit Arizona. My primary reason was to look at some condos. There are two locations I seemed to like...one was a complex called Bella Vista 14000 N 94th Street in the 85260 zip code and the other was called Bella Terra located at 5335 E Shea Blvd in the 85254 Zip Code. Unfortunately, I did not have time to visit/explore these zip codes. Both of these complex's seemed to be very clean and well maintained. Does anyone have any info to share on either of these complex's or the area?

[RichNess]

Cop,
I have lived in 85255 for 5 years as a transplanted Seattleite. I think looking at the data on this site will help guide your decision. The concentration of upwardly mobile of ALL ages make North Scottsdale their home. The recent sprawl of infrastructure, namely Scottsdale One, and others, not to mention more golf courses per capita, are creating a nice suburban destination. The median age is New Boomers, and the neighborhoods are clean and safe. Most of the property here is gated, though there is quite a bit of "ranch" estate land as well, for those willing to pay for serenity. I prefer this area to southern California. In terms of equity building, this is one of the premier zip codes in America, even with the state of the housing industry. Homes prices are leveling, but not long. I expect significant raises around 18 months from now, and well into the future. Just remember, here in AZ anything with elevation (view), is spendy, but worth every penny. What Boomer wouldn't retire in a dry, non hurricane, non earthquake, non flooding, area...?