Archive for the ‘Real Estate’ Category

Scottsdale, Arizona: A Nice Place to Visit, A Better Place to Live

posted by Frank Stevens 7:32 AM
Friday, February 5, 2010

A Nice Place to Visit

If you are considering moving to a different city and / or state, do yourself a favor and investigate Scottsdale, Arizona. Not only is it a beautiful place to live, it has a great economy and satisfaction surveys show that people living in Scottsdale are exceptionally happy. Scottsdale has exceptional weather, luxury shopping, first class restaurants, impressive arts and cultural community, and an abundant tourism industry. Enjoy a better quality of life by making the move to Scottsdale, Arizona!

Scottsdale is located in the Maricopa County of Arizona. It is just east of the capital city, Phoenix. Scottsdale is bordered by the other Arizona cities of Paradise Valley, Carefre, Tempe, and Fountain Hills. Scottsdale is located in the Salt River Valley, which is also known as The Valley of the Sun. The population of Scottsdale is almost 250,000 as of the year 2009. The climate of Scottsdale can be characterized as arid, with the winters being mild and the summers being relatively hot. The weather Scottsdale enjoys makes this city a popular destination for snowbirds, or people who like to travel to warmer climates when the climate they live in gets too cold to bear.

A large part of Scottsdale’s economy is tourism. Scottsdale has been referred to as the Miami Beach of Arizona. This is because there is plenty of upscale shopping, luxury dining, and nightlife to enjoy in this beautiful city. Aside from the shopping, dining, and nightlife, Scottsdale is mainly revered for its resorts and spas. Scottsdale is second only to New York City in its number of triple A five-diamond hotels, most notably The Phoenician, The Canyon Suites, Scottsdale Camelback Inn, Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North, and the Fairmont Princess Resort and Spa. One thing that seems to go hand in hand with the spa industry is golfing, and Scottsdale has plenty of that. Scottsdale has several first class golf courses to be enjoyed by the golf enthusiasts.

Scottsdale also boasts a diverse and plentiful arts and cultural community. Scottsdale is a national capitol for a style of art and culture termed Southwestern, but also has its share of modern and contemporary art as well. Downtown Scottsdale has three arts districts for art enthusiasts to enjoy, the Main Street Arts District, the Marshall Way Arts District, and Old Town. There is a weekly artists event in Scottsdale held every Thursday evening, called the Scottsdale Artwalk and a yearly Scottsdale Arts Festival.

Shopping in Scottsdale is plentiful as Scottsdale has evolved into one of the southwestern United States premiere shopping destinations. There is a large upscale shopping center in north Scottsdale called the Keirland Commons and downtown Scottsdale is home to the Scottsdale Fashion Square. The Scottsdale Fashion Square boasts nearly two million square feet of shopping and is routinely ranked as one of the country’s most profitable shopping centers. Whether you are into corporate retail shopping or independent boutiques, Scottsdale shopping has something for everyone.

San Diego’s Historical Past

posted by Frank Stevens 5:32 PM
Monday, February 1, 2010

San Diego’s Historical Past

San Diego is an evolving modern exciting city that hosts millions of visitors each year who visit all the historic landmarks to learn more about this fine city’s early beginnings.  San Diego County is one of the most visited places in the world and most people who live here or visit may be unfamiliar with its rich history and culture.

San Diego’s earliest recorded history began with a Portuguese-born explorer, Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo.  In 1542, Cabrillo sailed in and claimed the bay for the Spanish Empire and named spot San Miguel.  In the early 1600’s, a Spaniard by the name of Sebastián Vizcaíno was sent to map the California coast.   Arriving on his called the San Diego, Vizcaíno surveyed the harbor and what is now Mission Bay and Point Loma.  He named the area for the Catholic Saint Didacus, more commonly known as San Diego and that is where the city gets it’s name..

Around 1769, Mission San Diego de Alcalá was founded by Franciscan friars under Father Junípero Serra. By 1797, the mission boasted the largest native population in Alta California.  It is the first of the 21 missions and known as the Mother of the Missions. In the last thirty years, it was designated as a Minor Basilica in 1976 by Pope Paul VI. The Mission today remains an active Catholic Parish in the Diocese of San Diego and a National Historic Landmark.

The Mexican-American War was fought in the San Pasqual Valley which is now part of the city of San Diego.. In 1850 the war ended and the Mexican governement ceded California to the United States, it brought a great migration of Americans during th gold rush of 1848.  A few years later, the United States admitted California as the

U.S. Navy established the Navy Coaling Station in Point Loma in 1901.  After World War II, the military played an increasing role in the local economy.  Because the Navy had such an inmpact on the local economy, post-Cold War cutbacks took a heavy toll on defense and aerospace industries. Looking to come out of this slump, other industires emerged like biotechnology and telecommunications.

Today, tourism has immerged as a major industry in San Diego County.  San Diego is one of the top 5 leisure vacation destinations due to it’s ideal climate, beaches and entertainment.  SeaWorld San Diego, Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo are just a few of the attractions in San Diego.  Moving through San Diego County you’ll find Del Mar Fairgrounds, Legoland California and San Diego Wild Animal Park.  San Diego County is a premier golf resort destination bringing thousands of visitors each year.

If you’re interested in moving to San Diego, now is the time to buy with homes at historical low’s.   If you’re new to this city, you’ll be surprised by its early beginnings and how they impact the city today.

Romantic Holiday in Temecula

posted by Frank Stevens 4:31 PM
Monday, February 1, 2010

Temecula

More and more people are moving to the Temecula Valley for its quality of life and affordable homes. The city has a lot of affordable options from the suburbs to wine country living which makes Temcula attractive for home buyers, investors and businesses alike. With a moderate cost of living and pleasant climate throughout the year, you’ll find activities, entertainment and housing options to fit your lifestyle

With Valentines Day just around the corner, a hot air balloon ride over Temecula’s wine country is just the romantic date you’ll want to have this year. These hot air balloon rides allow you to soar peacefully over beautiful scenery of Temecula and wine country with your special someone.

Because of Temecula’s pleasant climate, hot air balloon rides can be enjoyed year-round. Typically, the flight is 60 to 90 minutes in length normally begin around sunrise. Some companies do offer sunset flights as well. Depending on the weather and time of the year, you’ll want to wear comfortable clothing with closed toed walking shoes and casual pants or shorts. It might be chilly in the early morning, but it will be warmer in the balloon. The balloons soar as high as 500 to 1500 feet above the ground.

The entire experience usually takes from 3 to 5 hours and will be a memorable adventure. You’ll enjoy a relaxing ride guides by your experienced pilot who will be happy to point out the area and wineries below. You’ll pass over vineyards owned by wineries such as Callaway, Falkner and Thornton. With the mountains in the backdrop, this unique experience will not be one you’ll soon forget.

Depending on your package, you have the option to enjoy a champagne send off before you depart or after you return. Or, have a gourmet champagne lunch served aboard. Many companies offer a brunch after your flight as well. Your favorite music can also be incorporated into the flight. Anniversaries are also a nice way to commemorate your special day. Follow up the balloon ride with a romantic dinner at one of the local wineries. Falkner Winery is offering a four-course romantic dinner with individual wine pairings or enjoys a dinner for two at Thornton Winery that includes a decadent desert and premium wines.

If you are planning for an early ride, local overnight stays are encouraged. Wine country has many options for accommodations like the South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, the Inn at Churon Winery or the Castle Bed and Breakfast. South Coast Winery’s Resort offers 76 spacious villas that overlook the vineyards. Each private villa includes your very own fireplace and relaxing spa tub. Unwind at the Spa on the ground with their innovative vine treatments or walk along peaceful paths among the vines.

Temecula’s hot air balloon rides are sure to make this Valentines Day one to remember.

Living in Franklin

posted by Frank Stevens 4:28 PM
Monday, February 1, 2010

Living in Franklin

Franklin is a charming suburb of Nashville in Williamson County. Only 20 miles away from downtown Nashville, the city combines its ties to their rich past with an upscale urban development. It’s no surprise that recently the city recently made the top ten lists as the “Best Small Town” by Southern Living.

The City of Franklin was founded by Abram Maury, Jr., a State Senatory and was named after Benjamin Franklin, a close friend of Dr. Hugh Williamson, a member of the Continental Congress for whom Williamson County was named.

Franklin is perhaps best known as the site of the Civil War’s bloodiest battle, the Battle of Franklin. Before the Civil War, the city and Williamson County was perhaps one of the wealthiest counties in Tennessee. However, on November 30, 1864, the Battle of
Franklin took its toll on this community killing and wounding almost 10,000. The war destroyed the economy and it took almost 120 years for the counties economy to reach pre-war status. Today, visitors can learn about Franklin’s part in Civil War history by touring the Carter House, the Lotz House and the Historic Carnton Plantation, which includes the largest privately-owned Confederate cemetery in the nation.

Downtown Franklin is comprised of a 15-block historic district. The district includes an array of 70 trendy boutiques, antique shops and restaurants. With a history that dates back more than 200 years, it offers a dynamic American main street experience with brick-lined sidewalks, manicured landscaping and beautifully restored historic buildings.

Franklin’s family-friendly festivals that take place throughout the year attract more than 200,000 visitors annually. One of the most anticipated festivals each year is the Annual Main Street Festival. The festival offers entertainment in the way of music, booths with crafts and art made by local artists, food vendors and a big traditional carnival for the kids with all their favorite rides.

If you’re considering moving to Franklin, the median home price for a single-family detached homes are around $338,000 and go up from there. Other types of homes available are town homes, condominiums and beautiful estates overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

With Nashville on thirty minutes away, you’ll have access to all the big city has to offer. For country music enthusiast, a trip to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and the Grand Ole Opry is sure to be a treat. Enjoy world-class musical performance at the Nashville Performing Arts Center where you could be center-stage to see the Nashville Ballet or Symphony. No trip to Nashville would be complete without stopping by some of the many clubs to enjoy music by local artist and to sample some of the south’s delicious cuisine.

Whether you’re planning a move or simply come to Franklin to enjoy its culture and heritage, the city will charm you with its perfectly manicured streets and hospitality.

Working in Atlanta

posted by Frank Stevens 3:39 PM
Monday, February 1, 2010

Working in Atlanta

Atlanta is a large metropolitan city with plenty of career opportunities. The cities moderate climate, affordable home options and career choices are some of the reasons why more and more people are moving to Atlanta.

Atlanta’s job market is diverse and allows you to find a position that fits your experience and passion. Five major sectors dominate the job landscape in Atlanta. If your experience lies within the Information Technology sector, statewide, Georgia ranks fifth in the percentage of gross state product from this sector. The vast majority of this business happens in Atlanta. There are over 390 Information Technology companies in Atlanta. Some of the largest companies based in Atlanta are Think Inc., Frontech Computers, Rubicon Group, Soltech Inc, Cybernetixs and Magnum Communications.

Companies with headquarters in Atlanta are Coca-Cola, CNN and UPS, SunTrust Bank, AT&T/BellSouth and Delta Airlines. Coca-Cola Company is an excellent employer in the city. They boast that their company is built around two core assests: its brand and its people

Atlanta has always had a big telecommunications presence. Giants like AT&T Corp, MCI WorldCom and Alltel Corp are also large companies in Atlanta with employment opportunities. AT&T is the leading long-distance carrier with 10,072 employees in Georgia alone. AT&T provides other services, such as wireless, Internet access and local telephone service to businesses. An important AT&T function in metro Atlanta is its network services facility in Rockdale County. It is one of three U.S. operations that monitor the AT&T network to detect problems. Atlanta is also headquarters for MCI WorldCom’s North American Business Market operation with over 4,000 employees.

Pharmaceuticals and Medical Manufacturing is also present in Atlanta. Some companies in the city are Paivis Corps, Pfeiffer Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Goberx.Com, Amgen Inc. and Allergan Inc. Allergan is a global, technology-driven multi-specialty health care company pursuing therapeutic advances to help patients live life to their fullest potential. More than 50 percent of their work force is in either research and development or sales. Allergan’s flagship franchises in eye care, neurosciences, medical dermatology and urologics are structured under the company’s pharmaceutical business portfolio, Allergan Pharmaceuticals. This portfolio offers specialty physicians and their patients a wide range of treatments to help preserve and protect sight, reduce physical disability and enhance quality of life.

Another major sector outpacing the national growth averages is in Architectural and Engineering Services. Companies located in Atlanta are Surber Barber Choate & Hertlein Architects, Inc., Thompson, Hancock, Witte & Associates, Inc., Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc. and United Engineering Company Inc.

Tourism holds a steady opportunity in Hospitality and Services that is driven by the millions of visitors to the city each year.

Rounding out the job sector in Atlanta is the Scientific Research and Development Services. Scientific Research Corporation is an advanced engineering company who is focused on a broad range of information, communications, intelligence, electronic warfare, simulation and research and development.

You’ll be sure to find a career in Atlanta that suits your career goals.