the most shocking thing about buying a home in the valley

[SEValleyAZGal]

If you do decide to purchase a new build, here are some options to consider having the builder add (for resale and/or quality of life) are:

1. Service garage door.
2. Ceiling fan pre-wire in all bedrooms, family room and patio. You can add the ceiling fans later but pre-wire for it now. (Ceiling fans are a must in AZ.)
3. Reverse Osmosis line at kitchen sink and frig.
4. Plumbed for Soft water loop (you can always add the system later) but plumb for it now.
5. North and South exposure is best.

[farmgirlsuz]

Thanks SEValleyAZGal! Good to know all five are in the plan!
No allergies so no worries!
No kids either but I do understand the need to be aware of schools for property value.
Now, finding a good/inexpensive landscaper! Looking forward to getting my hands in the dirt but need help with the plan and native plants.

[PoppySead]

Originally Posted by farmgirlsuz

Pretty sure the builder/hoa mandates the front yard grass situation and the turf is the backyard is more for aesthetic appeal as well as weed/dust control. It's a very small area so it's not like my huge grass yard in Iowa. No more weekends spent mowing, weeding and endless landscaping -yay!

I have artificial and I love it!! Looks great and no work, can't be happier.
The pool might not add a lot of value but life here without one weakens the quality. Nothing like looking forward to summer instead of dreading it. It's so fun buying a new build, you'll love it!

[PoppySead]

Originally Posted by farmgirlsuz

Thanks SEValleyAZGal! Good to know all five are in the plan!
No allergies so no worries!
No kids either but I do understand the need to be aware of schools for property value.
Now, finding a good/inexpensive landscaper! Looking forward to getting my hands in the dirt but need help with the plan and native plants.

There is always the home stores, their garden departments have classes sometimes on native landscapes.

[SEValleyAZGal]

Originally Posted by farmgirlsuz

Thanks SEValleyAZGal! Good to know all five are in the plan!
No allergies so no worries!
No kids either but I do understand the need to be aware of schools for property value.
Now, finding a good/inexpensive landscaper! Looking forward to getting my hands in the dirt but need help with the plan and native plants.

You're welcome - good to know you've added those options! And yes, school districts are very important for resale value. I have a couple of landscapers I can refer to you. I also designed and put in our own pool (i.e., "generaled") - you can save around 30% by doing it yourself.