There are many unique and wonderful communities to discover in Tucson. But if I had to choose, I’d say that there’s one neighborhood that “sits above the rest” in more ways than one.

Meet one of the most desirable communities in Tucson real estate – the Catalina Foothills. With its higher elevation and proximity to the majestic Catalina Mountains, it’s a quality community with unsurpassed mountain views, twinkling of city lights and fabulous amenities that set it apart. If you’re looking for a superior school system, wonderful shopping, good restaurants and proximity to the great outdoors, you’ll want to consider a home in the Catalina Foothills.

Before Oro Valley or Marana existed, visionary architects selected the Catalina Foothills as the site to build luxurious Southwestern homes within a striking natural desert. Today this community continues to attract those wishing to nestle distinctive homes on large lots in the ridges of the Catalina Mountains. The Catalina Foothills is not a cookie cutter environment – instead, you’ll discover a charming, distinctive mix of superior residences – from beautiful haciendas to ultra-sleek contemporaries. There are condos, townhouses and single family homes all priced for a variety of lifestyles. Many realtors consider this the best in Tucson real estate in terms of investment and quality of life.

The Catalina Foothills school system is recognized for its exceptional faculty, facilities and curriculum. The schools are labeled "excelling" by the Arizona Department of Education – indicating consistently high levels of student achievement.

Shopping centers like La Encantada add a cosmopolitan atmosphere to the community, while lovely galleries offer arts and culture opportunities. Dining at some of Tucson’s finest restaurants is available here. Plus the community is home to Tucson’s finest resorts.

Nature is at your front door – with Sabino Canyon among the best spots for hiking, cycling or walking. If outdoor recreation is more your style, there are a variety of country clubs, fitness facilities and golf courses to select from, including Ventana Canyon.

Check out what the New York Times had to say about the Catalina Foothills just last year. When you’re ready to locate your Catalina Foothills dream home, please give TRE Daily a call. We know this great community and would love to introduce it to you!

Is today the day to realize your dream of owning your first home in Tucson? If so, TRE Daily is here to help organize your home-buying plan:

1. Paperwork. First step is to learn if now is your time to buy, and how much you can afford. You’ll need to look at your income, credit (and rating), current monthly expenses and down payment availability. Check this handy calculator to help you crunch your numbers. Once you determine that your financial house is in order, and after you’ve visited a lender to determine your qualifications for a mortgage, you’re on your way to confident home buying.
2. Partner. OK, time to go shopping! Before you look for a house, you should locate a good REALTOR – and you’ve found one in Ron Park of TRE Daily! We are your best guide through all aspects – neighborhood selection, zeroing in on price range, and accessing homes as soon as they’re put on the market. The TRE Daily process will save you time and money.
3. Shopping. With the best, most experienced ally as your guide, it’s time to search for your home. TRE Daily will help you make quality selections. You’ll have a TRE Daily checklist to help you analyze important home features, interior and exterior qualities, neighborhood and environment of each property you review. You can use the TRE Daily checklist to compare homes as you proceed in your search. This is a big decision –take your time!
4. Inspect. When you’re ready, discuss the options of making an offer with TRE Daily, who will be there to assist with any negotiations to the terms of the sale. At this time you’ll also want to get a home inspection from a trained, certified expert. Read TRE Daily’s Home Inspection 101 post for more information on home inspections. In addition you’ll need to shop for homeowners insurance, and TRE Daily can help you find a reliable insurance company.
5. Finish Line. You’re almost there! Read everything (inspection report to closing documents) before you sign. Ask questions. Once again, TRE Daily is your partner right through to the closing. Here is a handy resource on what you can expect at a closing and in terms of settlement costs.

For many, the process of first-time home-buying can be frightening. But with TRE Daily by your side, it will be a very satisfying and positive experience. Call TRE Daily today to get your home-buying checklist and to get going with your American dream home!

In today's market, the advantage is given to the buyers. And with our foreign friends in Canada and various countries in Europe, their buying power is much stronger than before, and they get more home for their dollar. Tucson has is a little big city, and in the North we have the majority of luxury real estate. But what actually is luxury real estate? Before I give you my take, I'll let Doug Trudeau give you his expert opinion on the matter. He really nailed the Tucson luxury home list.

My opinion of a truly luxurious home is a home that is…

• Built by a reputable contractor who uses the finest quality of material,
• top of the line lumber or steal framed
• highest grade stucco, bock, or concrete
• highest quality plumbing, electrical, flooring material, etc.
• Designed differently than that of surrounding homes,
• Located in an area with other luxurious homes,
• Captures and compliments the beauty of its surroundings,
• Has a personality and character all its own,
• Presents a feeling of grandure,
• Top end amenities
  • Andersen windows
  • Viking, Dacor, Wolf, SubZero  appliances
  • Grohe, Boffi, Lacava or other luxury bath fixtures
• Kitchen design that a chef would fall in love with
• Bathrooms that pamper their guests
• Living area that invites the views of surrounding mountains or the desert
• Garage that has room for opening doors completely or big enough to store collectibles along with daily drivers

Source: Tucson Real Estate Blogs

Right on the heels of being one of USA’s most bicycle-friendly cities and having one of the country's top communities to “live and launch,” Tucson has netted another big accomplishment.

On May 1 the American Lung Association issued its annual report card on air pollution, ranking cities on their air quality. Tucson (and its air) sparkled, and placed #6 in the country for its clean air!

While one in 10 people in the U.S. live in areas with unhealthful levels of three types of pollution (ozone, short-term and year-round particle pollution), Tucsonans live in one of the top ten cities in terms of air laden with the least amount of particle pollution (and this means fresh air with the least amount of ash, soot, diesel exhaust, chemicals, metals and aerosols.) The #1 cleanest city was Cheyenne, Wyoming. Phoenix was the 19^th most polluted city in terms of ozone, and topping the list of most polluted cities in terms of year round particle pollution was Los Angeles.

The American Lung Association also reported that two of every five people—42 percent—in the U.S. live in counties that have unhealthful levels of either ozone or particle pollution. Poor air quality puts people at risk for decreased lung function and a variety of respiratory infections or illness…Tucsonans can feel protected from this thanks to our city’s clean air ranking!

To learn more about the study go to the American Lung Association website and read about The State of the Air: 2008.

There’s no doubt about it: The USA economy is in the midst of a significant slowdown. We’re not economists at TRE Daily, but we know that Arizona is hard hit like other states. Arizona is seeing declines in our housing industry and in consumer confidence. Reports by the University of Arizona’s Eller College of Management show downward trends. It’s not a pretty picture nationally or for our region.

But there are some bright spots. And as we all weather the economic storm, Tre Daily invites readers to look ahead to some good news in Tucson’s economic picture: 

1. Tucson is considered a “rising star” in biotechnology by Business Facilities magazine. This national publication for corporate real estate professionals named Tucson to its list, citing expansion of bioscience opportunities in our area. We can be proud of our advances, like the Arizona Bioscience Park being envisioned in Tucson by the University of Arizona.
2. Speaking of Tucson’s strong footing in research, technology and business, it’s important to mention our strength in the Astronomy, Planetary and Space Science area. Late last year the Eller College of Management released a study of the economic and tax revenue impact of this discipline – it’s amazing! From jobs generated to visitors attracted here, the influence of this group is tremendous. Beyond positively impacting our economy, these facilities (think Kitt Peak) are world-renowned and continue to be an outstanding part of our way of life.
3. Announced this year: Tucson is in the top 50 of more than 363 areas surveyed by the US Census Bureau in terms of population growth.  Lots of people are moving to Tucson, making us the second fastest growing region in Arizona.
4. Employment opportunities will grow in an interesting segment: Natural Resources and Mining. That’s according to the state’s Department of Commerce. This year that sector showed a 17 percent increase in employment with 10 percent growth expected next year. More news in that sector: Regional employer Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold is No. 140 on the Fortune 500 list this year (and thus leads the list of top-ranked Arizona companies on the prestigious magazine’s honor roll.)

Another beautiful weekend ahead in the Old Pueblo. Beyond great weather you’ll find 2 happenings around town that are steeped in regional cultural, Americana and just plain fun…get out and enjoy them!

1. Did someone say Harley? For the second time Tucson is welcoming the Arizona State HOG Rally downtown. Tucson Thunder is a celebration of music, motorcycles and people watching. On Friday and Saturday, around Broadway, Stone and Congress streets (and other streets downtown including the Tucson Convention Center) there will an historical motorcycle exhibit, a parade, music, lots to eat and the best part of all – seeing lots of wild bikes and their riders! Free movies, too. Check out the schedule and head downtown to enjoy the excitement.
    
2. The Tucson Folk Festival has been a wonderful free event downtown for over 23 years. Several stages are set up downtown around the Old Presidio, and the music scene is complemented with a wide assortment of craft and food vendors. In addition to national acts, the festival showcases local and regional musicians from Arizona and the Southwest. The Festival also offers workshops, a gospel sing-along, a children's show, and lots of booths. It runs Friday through Sunday – Check out the schedule and attend as many venues as you can!

When I first arrived in Tucson (a relocation from the Big Apple), I wondered how a city like Tucson would satisfy a seasoned New Yorker. I learned quickly that Tucson’s funky mix of regionally-unique fun has a lot to offer, even to those of us who have seen it all! Check out downtown Tucson this weekend and you’ll agree! In fact, contact TRE Daily about your pick from the Tucson scene this weekend! Be it Iron Man movie opening…downtown event…or art gallery opening, send us your comments!

Just announced – The USA’s oldest and most respected bicycling association has recognized Tucson once again as one of the nation’s most Bicycle-Friendly Communities.

The League of American Bicyclists, the organization founded in 1880 that represents 57 million bicyclists, revealed today that it is renewing Tucson’s “gold level status” – noting that there are only six cities in the entire country honored with this gold level designation. This designation is a significant accomplishment, as cities selected for the honor must meet rigorous criteria in five categories before even being considered. The categories involve bike safety education, enforcement of cyclist rights, inclusion of bike lane study in regional transportation plans and other factors.

The bicycle-friendly environment program was initiated by the League in 2003 and since then hundreds of cities across the country have applied for the program. Only 84 communities have been so honored, most of them falling in the bronze or silver designation. Tucson’s gold status keeps us in good company, with cities like Boulder, San Francisco and Palo Alto – also designated as gold.

In 2006, Mayor Walkup said it best at Tucson’s original gold honor ceremony: “The Tucson region puts quality of life and quality of place first," Walkup said. "Thousands of Tucson residents and visitors use their bicycles for transportation, recreation or sports. We are also committed to enhancing bicycling safety in the region and to encouraging others to hop on their bicycles and take a ride around Tucson.”

Tucson also supports bicycles as alternative transportation to and from work, and employers are encouraged to enhance their facilities and provide Bicycle Storage & Changing Rooms as described in the Alternative Transportation for the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building rating System. It’s all part of being a green and bike-friendly city.

You can join in the celebration of Tucson’s recertification as a Bicycle-Friendly Community on May 15, when Mayor Walkup will lead a “celebration ride” followed by an awards ceremony. It all begins at 8am in Randolph Golf Complex – so, if you’re interested in participating in the ride, contact the Pima Association of Governments.

Here at TRE Daily we’re dedicated to a tradition of highest customer service. Our commitment is to satisfy your real estate needs through personalized service that handles all elements of the complex process of buying or selling a home.

Nobody knows Tucson real estate like TRE Daily, and here’s what we offer you:

If you're interested in buying a home…..

1. Our website will be your one-stop information resource! New listings and markets are added daily for the most current information available.
2. You’ll have access to all local listings, with virtual home galleries and more.
3. Let’s say you are new to the area and considering Tucson for your family or your retirement. TRE Daily will work with you to determine your goals, interests and location preferences, and then tailor personalized home-buying tours to help you select. Our resources will provide objective and comprehensive information!
4. When you’ve found the home of your dreams, a member of the TRE Daily team will be there to support you through all phases of negotiations, inspections, financing and closing.

   If you're interested in selling a home…..

5. We’ll help you sell your home for the maximum amount in the shortest amount of time possible, and we'll help you negotiate all offers.
6. We’ll help you prep your home to help you show it to optimum advantage!
7. We’ll list and photograph your property, hold open houses, and inform you meticulously on appointments and all activity.
8. We’ll tailor a Marketing Plan for your property and aggressively market through direct mail and other avenues.
9. We’ll link to offices networked nationally so we can help you take advantage of relocations to our area.
10. We’ll help build unique excitement and create awareness about your home, and we’ll bring buyers to you!

We’re better, faster and sharper than others, and our team combines traditional attention to detail with the highest technological advances! TRE Daily is looking forward to working with you – Contact us today!

Yet another positive notch for Tucson. Our city is appearing on more and more “Best of…” lists. Today’s recognition involves cuisine – The April 2008 edition of Arizona Highways selected Tucson’s Feast (4122 E. Speedway) for the magazine’s "Best Restaurants in Arizona: 25 of our favorite places to grab a bite to eat" report.

Actually I’m a little sad about inclusion of this wonderful restaurant in the Arizona Highways feature – Selfishly I want to keep the crowds down at this small, exceptional restaurant.

Feast is a mix of neighborhood charm, delicious specialty foods, wines and so much more. In addition to sit-down dining Feast is a gourmet to-go deli, with perfect offerings for that picnic basket or take-home treat. Chef-owner Doug Levy is a master in his kitchen and in his dining room…where regulars and newcomers alike enjoy friendly, attentive service and absolutely savory food that mixes local organic with a variety of European and new American or Southwest dishes. You also will find awesome comfort food (mac and cheese anyone?) at this special eatery.

Doug is a very talented chef who started his restaurant/catering business/wine store on Speedway several years ago after working at other local favorites.  Doug enthusiastically takes care of his guests and changes his menu often, canvassing restaurant-goers about their favorite dishes (which then become specials during summertime). I absolutely love his wine-by-the-glass selections, his vegetarian items and his desserts. (Yummy home-made cakes and ice cream flavors change regularly!)

If you are looking for fresh, quality ingredients, innovative cuisine, an ever-changing menu with reasonable prices in a casual atmosphere, please eat at Feast. And enjoy.  (But try not to mention this tip to too many people…!)