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!

Fortune Small Business and CNN Money online just announced the list of “Best 100 Places to Live and Launch” – and Tucson’s own Oro Valley was #44 on the list! The prestigious magazine and business website canvassed the country to find “towns with the best mix of business advantages and lifestyle appeal,” and found Oro Valley to be one of the top picks to build dreams.

How true that is - Oro Valley has a wonderful standard of living characterized by the best in education, services, business and beautiful environment. Located just few miles north of the heart of Tucson, this great residential and business center has a fabulous array of shopping opportunities, businesses and recreational offerings.

Scenic drives abound in this town along the western edge of the Santa Catalina Mountains, whether they be through nearby Catalina State Park or the other surrounding mountain range, the Tortolitas. There also are abundant restaurants, resorts, churches, medical facilities and opportunities for golfing and other outdoor pursuits. Schools and the town center also provide a variety of other amenities including libraries and community centers.

Oro Valley also is home to a variety of businesses including a research and an emerging biotech industry. The local chamber of commerce membership roster boasts over 500 members, from resorts to large corporations and medical centers – all attracted by the beauty and scope of this area.

With all its growth, Oro Valley still holds true to its environmental values, and pays careful attention to protecting its natural environment while planning residential and business growth. You can learn more about this great town from the official website. Or contact Ron Park and The Pepper Group Diversified for a personalized tour of the town that’s setting high standards in Tucson – Oro Valley!

First in a series profiling Tucson’s many fabulous neighborhoods

When I relocated from New York City and began my home search in Tucson, I concentrated up in the North, where the Foothills area offers fabulous views, strong communities and opportunity to own acreage in our lovely Sonoran desert. But if you’re a fan of history and magnificent architecture, look at El Presidio District, a beautiful downtown community of diverse housing and deep historical roots.

On the National Register of Historic Places, El Presidio District is home to one of the nation’s oldest inhabited Native American sites as well as the original Tucson walled fort. Here you can live amidst impressive adobe homes and remnants of the 18th-century walled compound that was old Tucson! And this rich experience with history is balanced with close proximity to elegant structures that now house a contemporary mix of shops, professional offices, galleries, restaurants and museums.

There are many gorgeous homes of diverse architectural styles in this historic district roughly bounded by Washington, Pennington, Church and Granada. Take a ramble down there this week, and the streetscape you’ll find contains an interesting residential mix complete with lush desert plantings and brightly painted doors.

The appeal of stunning homes and a strong neighborhood is complemented by the area’s shopping, dining and cultural opportunities. For example, enter the courtyard of Old Town Artisans and be prepared for a wonderful experience offering a variety of shopping options. Dine at historic El Charro Cafe (and don’t miss the tasty Carne Seca!) And of course visit the Tucson Museum of Art, where Contemporary, Mexican, Western and Native American exhibits celebrate the diverse cultures of our region. Imagine a lifestyle with all this in your backyard, and with the downtown business district nearby!

From homes with Mexican-Spanish influences to contemporary residences renovated with edgy designer flair, El Presidio District offers fine living in a small village atmosphere. Consider owning a piece of Tucson history. Contact Ronald Park today and he will have the answers you need!

Save the Date: April 5, 2008 for El Presidio Spring Fiesta! Hours: 10am-3pm. Start out at SW corner, Church & Washington. Parking is free on nearby streets on the weekends. Enjoy historical walking tours, arts and cultural demonstrations, games, cuisine and more in the District!