City Franchise or Private Franchise Water (Phoenix, Scottsdale: houses, to buy, utilities)

[newnorth777]

As someone who has not lived in Phoenix, I'm confused by the terms used to describe water utilities. As we look at houses and building lots, some have City Franchise other have Private Franchise. Can someone explain this? I'm guessing that City Franchise would mean that a city municipality is providing the water and that Private Franchise means a private water company. Is that correct? I'm also interested in hearing about any water related issues that we should be aware of. Are there any areas that have much higher water charges than others? We don't want to buy a house or building lot only to find that we are in an area that has extra high rates for water. We are staying clear of properties that have wells because of concerns that they could go dry in the future. Some places that we have looked at have water companies hauling water in and that just sounds crazy.
So, let's hear your water related stories. We welcome any and all feedback on the subject of water and what we, as future residence of the Phoenix Metro area need to be aware of before making a housing choice. Thanks in advance for your help.

[Zippyman]

I cant comment on any private water companies, but I've lived in the cities of Phoenix, Scottsdale & Chandler over the past few years and all had reasonably priced water. It sometimes tastes awful & looks disgusting, but we're told it's safe & it isnt expensive.

as for the real-estate listings, I wouldnt trust the info in them - it's pretty common for agents to cut n paste old listings or even neighboring property info into the MLS. If it's important and in doubt, ask for the "spds" (seller disclosure) form before writing your offer. many of the better listing agents will attach it right to the listing in the MLS. - you wouldnt see the attachment in the "public" view, but your agent would.