Check out the latest edition of our newsletter!
602-677-4130 • DLJonesHomes.com January/February 2026 North Valley Pride
BIG ADVENTURES START WITH BIG PLANS (IN TRAVEL AND IN REAL ESTATE) What Is on Your Bucket List?
Many of you are familiar with or personally know our daughter, Ashley. We are thrilled that she has fulfilled her obligations to the National Health Service Corps for her PA School Scholarship in Fresno, CA, and that she has accepted a position with Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center in their surgical oncology department here in Phoenix! For those who may not know, Ashley is our planner, goal-setter, and go-getter. Even more impressive is that she does not procrastinate, primarily because, as a student-athlete, to be able to participate in evening basketball practices, we required her homework to come first, and she had to have everything done before practice. She has carried her goal-setting trait into her young adulthood. Shortly after graduating from college, Ashley set her “30 By 30 Goal,” or 30 Bucket List Goals to accomplish by age 30. Included among her 30 goals is visiting 30 countries by age 30. To give you a glimpse into her world, here is where she has been so far:
To accomplish her travel goals, Ashley has learned to plan and budget for her trips. Traveling internationally requires time to plan
Conquering Country #22 with Ashley in Oia Village on Santorini, Greece!
the trip and funds to make the travel a reality. She must figure out where to go, who will accompany her on her next adventure, what to visit, where to stay, how to say a few key phrases in the local language, how to be respectful in that culture, and all the other planning that goes into visiting somewhere new. Additionally, and particularly because she is young, she finds ways to make her trips budget friendly. She looks for affordable flights and places to stay and always looks for price-conscious sightseeing opportunities. As we discussed this cover article, we saw a parallel in Ashley’s Bucket List to what we do. Purchasing a home was also among Ashley’s objectives, which she successfully achieved immediately after graduating from PA School. Owning a home or a vacation/ retirement home is often on our clients’ bucket list. Achieving a bucket list goal requires setting goals, planning, and budgeting. Whether someone is buying their first home, selling one home to buy another, purchasing a home as a winter escape to beautiful weather, or buying a home for retirement, achieving these goals requires a systematic approach to making a move.
1. United States 2. England (2yo) 3. France (2yo) 4. Spain (8yo) 5. Andorra (8yo) 6. Monaco (8yo) 7. Australia (9yo) 8. Germany (11yo) 9. Austria (11yo) 10. Belgium (11yo) 11. Luxembourg (11yo) 12. Switzerland (12yo)
13. Costa Rica (13yo) 14. Canada (14yo) 15. Botswana (21yo) 16. South Africa (21yo) 17. Namibia (21yo) 18. Zimbabwe (21yo)
19. Zambia (21yo) 20. Jamaica (26yo) 21. Italy (26yo) 22. Greece (26yo) 23. Iceland (27yo) 24. Mexico (28yo)
Continued on Page 3 ...
1
Extraordinary Realtors
602-677-4130
Dennis & Lisa Jones
2025 IN REVIEW We like to measure success by counting how many people we helped move! In 2025, we helped 61 families move! We were honored to be called to assist every single person, couple, family, empty nester, and retiree who established a new home address in 2025. And while Anthem is where we live and help the most people, we are proud to serve those who asked us to help them in Peoria, Scottsdale, Cave Creek, Phoenix, Surprise, and even a few out-of-state clients who we were able to connect with quality agents to assist them. As we look forward to 2026, we have a question for you: Will your home be on next year’s list?
42045 N Crooked Stick Road, Anthem 42128 N Anthem Springs Road, Anthem 1946 W Eastman Court, Anthem 42103 N Astoria Way, Anthem 1537 W Spirit Drive, Anthem 41714 N Signal Hill Court, Anthem 1927 W Spirit Court, Anthem 16214 E Bainbridge Avenue, Fountain Hills 41319 N Panther Creek Court, Anthem 1726 W Medinah Court, Anthem 1776 W Owens Way, Anthem 2121 W Sonoran Desert Drive #89, Phoenix 40735 N Trailhead Way, Anthem 41912 N Signal Hill Court, Anthem 2734 W Plum Hollow Drive, Anthem 40805 N Harbour Town Way, Anthem 2121 W Sonoran Desert Drive #85, Phoenix 8943 W Deanna Drive, Peoria 2450 W Turtle Hill Dr, Anthem 1548 W Laurel Greens Court, Anthem 33451 N Symer Drive, Cave Creek 3416 Van Marter Road, Spokane Valley, WA 14466 W Hackamore Drive, Surprise 42315 N Olympic Fields Court, Anthem 2341 W Shadow Glen Court, Anthem 47616 N 23rd Drive, New River 2328 W Firethorn Way, Anthem 42123 N Long Cove Way, Anthem 2380 Sirena Lane, Mount Dora, FL 41208 N Prestancia Drive, Anthem 18940 E Queens Way, Black Canyon City
2310 W Hazelhurst Drive, Anthem 7223 W Saddlehorn Road, Peoria 30061 N 70th Drive, Peoria 42405 N Harbour Town Court, Anthem 4619 W Heyerdahl Court, Anthem 40713 N Apollo Way, Anthem 41440 N Bent Creek Way, Anthem 2164 W Muirfield Drive, Anthem 42127 N Celebration Way, Anthem 3538 W Kastler Drive, New River 40136 N Patriot Way, Anthem 41638 N Emerald Lake Drive, Anthem 40232 N Faith Lane, Anthem 40838 N Prestancia Court, Anthem 12752 W Junipero Drive, Sun City West 40802 N River Bend Road, Anthem 15201 N 25th Drive #4, Phoenix 2549 W Shinnecock Way, Anthem 41627 N Cedar Chase Road, Anthem 9450 E Becker Lane #2019, Scottsdale
3635 W McCauley Court, Anthem 3747 W Desert Creek Lane, Anthem 12110 W Rowel Road, Peoria 4455 E Paradise Village Parkway S #1057, Phoenix
3217 Y Street, Sacremento, CA 1653 W Ainsworth Drive, Anthem 3452 W Florimond Road, Phoenix 40704 N Bell Meadow Trail, Anthem 3450 W Steinbeck Drive, Anthem 42423 N Cross Timbers Ct, Anthem
2
DLJonesHomes.com
Dennis & Lisa Jones
Have you ever wondered what your family vacation would look like if you let your kids be the travel agents? If you let your children plan the itinerary, your next trip could be filled with whimsical detours, playful stops, and unexpected destinations. Getting your little adventurers in on the fun not only takes tasks off your to-do list, but it also ensures everyone gets to leave their mark on these cherished memories. From assigning them vacation jobs to letting each child run the show for a day, you have many fun ways to give your kiddos an active role on your next big trip. Turn Your Children Into Vacation Planners JUNIOR JETSETTERS
You might have to double the recipe to serve all your Super Bowl fans this Souper Bowl Chicken Chili! Or just enjoy on a winter evening! –Lisa ‘Souper Bowl’ Chicken Chili
INGREDIENTS • 1 small, yellow onion, diced • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts • 2 cups chicken stock • 2 tsp cumin • 2 tsp salt (optional) • 1 tsp chili powder • 1 tsp oregano • 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper • 2 4-oz cans diced green chiles • 2 15-oz cans Great • 12 oz whole kernel corn • 4 oz whipped cream cheese • 2 tbsp lime juice Northern beans, undrained
DIRECTIONS 1. In a large slow cooker, add onion, chicken, stock, cumin, salt, chili powder, oregano, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, green chiles, and beans. Cook on high for 4 hours. 2. Remove chicken, chop into bite-size pieces, and return to the slow cooker. 3. Stir in corn, cream cheese, and lime juice. Continue cooking on high for 1–2 hours until cream cheese is completely melted into chili. 4. Serve with desired topping.
Bon Voyage to Boredom When your kids plan portions of your trips, it ensures you visit unique places you may not have ever thought of as an adult. Not only does it keep your adventure interesting, but it also gives everyone in your family a chance to feel seen and valued. Parents and teen children usually have the bulk of responsibilities and decision-making on a trip, and this is a way to get the little ones involved. Everyone gets a say and an equal chance to do the activities they want to. Beyond the trip, it will help your children learn to travel in a group, compromise, prioritize, and make hard decisions. Destination Detectives Obviously, your 4-year-old can’t run the entire trip on their own, and the adults should also have some fun. So, get the kids involved in planning age-appropriate activities, and keep things equal in several ways. Let them play destination detective by researching where you’re going through books, videos, and kid-friendly websites. This will help them pick places they want to see and encourage them to learn about new destinations. If they are younger or have too many ideas, help them narrow the options. You could also assign everyone a vacation job, like having one child responsible for choosing restaurants and another for picking out photo ops.
... continued from Cover
When we meet with clients, we find ourselves asking:
–Dennis and Lisa Jones Wishing you an amazing 2026 with a Bucket List to fulfill! As we turn the calendar and start a new year, what is on your 2026 Bucket List? We hope that you can put procrastination on the back burner (like Ashley) and set goals to achieve your Bucket List! If we can help with any real estate goals, please reach out. (And Lisa can even help you plan your dream trip to France, either budget- friendly or 5-star! Just let her know!) Where do you want to go? What do you want in your new home? How will you pay for your new home? Just like planning a trip, our clients must determine their plan for what they want in a new home, where they will be when they sell their current home, and how they will budget to achieve their home ownership goals.
Before you hit the road for your next family vacation, let your kids make the map and set a course for giggles and magical memories.
3
Extraordinary Realtors
602-677-4130
THE ‘OOH LA LA’ LIFESTYLE Treat Yourself Like a Parisian Every Day
New Year, New Home! Whether you are out with the old or in with the new, we are in LOVE with our current inventory!
Ooh la la! While we can’t all wake up to the twinkle of the Eiffel Tower or stroll past a boulangerie on the way to work, we can bring a little touch of Parisian flair to our everyday lives. From savoring the simple things (like delicious croissants) to adding some je ne sais quoi to your home, you can bring the best of French lifestyle trends into your world, no matter how many miles are between you and the City of Lights.
Cherish your cozy chez-soi . Most Parisian apartments are small but feel like elegant chateaus. Embrace the maximalist style and add your own unique touches to
Anthem Country Club — 3 Bedrooms, Den, 3.5 Baths (incl. Backyard Cabana). Remodeled Kitchen & Guest Bath! Spa, Flagstone & Synthetic Turf in Backyard! Just Listed At $750,000!
Anthem Count Remodeled Grea Gas Fireplace. Spa Pergola,
your space. Parisian home design is about developing something uniquely you and filling your space with your favorite things and comforts. Pops of color and pleasant fragrances are French staples, so add fresh flowers to your table or find candles with delightful aromas. Bonus points if the candle is a French classic like the popular Diptyque brand. Savor life’s little luxuries. In Paris, the pace moves fast, but the people live in the present, slowing down to enjoy the simple pleasures of life, such as people-watching at a café, taking a break to read, or simply enjoying a light breeze. Savor the little things and give yourself technology breaks to enjoy the moment you are in. Luxury is synonymous with Paris, but you don’t need a huge budget to treat yourself. Instead of buying a designer handbag or Chanel suit, splurge on nicer sheets or a tasty pastry. Learn, explore, repeat often. Parisians appreciate imperfections and lead authentic lives, prioritizing joy over self-criticism. Acculturate yourself by visiting museums, enjoying art often, and staying up to date on current affairs. You want to ensure you always have something interesting to discuss at a party or gathering. In conversation, develop your own witty style, expressing your opinions clearly and inviting others to join in. You can never have too many books on the shelf because they will grow your knowledge base and are excellent conversation starters.
Serenity Villas in Anthem Condo— 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths. Remodeled with Quartz Counters Throughout, Stainless Appliances, Laminate Flooring! Trane HVAC & 1‑Car Garage! $345,000!
Anthem Country Club — 3 Bedrooms, Den, 2.5 Baths. Private Pool & 2 Spas! Brand New Carpet & Updates. New Roof & AC! New Interior & Recent Exterior Paint! Granite & Stainless Kitchen! $899,900!
Don your best beret, pour yourself a café au lait, and get ready to add a little Parisian elegance to your routines.
Anthem Country Club — 2 B View Lot with Heated Pool
4
DLJonesHomes.com
Dennis & Lisa Jones
Anthem Country Club — 5 Bedrooms, Den, 4.5 Baths (incl. Casita). Beautiful Remodel with Stunning Views of Daisy Mountain! Pool, Spa, Garden Pavers & Outdoor Kitchen! Huge Walk-in Closet!
Anthem Country Club — 4 Bedrooms, 2 Dens, 3.5 Baths. Spectacular Golf Course Lot with Expansive Golf, Mountain, Lake & Sunset views! Remodeled with Pool, Spa, Extended Primary Shower & Expanded Walk-in Closet! Coming Soon at $1,250,000!
try Club — 2 Bedrooms, Den, 3 Baths. at Room Floor Plan with Wood Beams & a, Water Feature, Outdoor Gas Fireplace, BBQ! Just Listed at $785,000!
Anthem Country Club — 3 Bedrooms, Den, 2.5 Baths. Beautifully Remodeled Kitchen with Professional Grade Appliances! Amazing Desert, Sunset & Mountain Views! New Roof & AC! Just Reduced to $750,000!
Tortosa in Maricopa — 5 Bedrooms, Loft, 4 Baths. Granite Kitchen, Updated Backyard with Synthetic Turf! Spacious Primary Suite! 2 Bedrooms Downstairs. Assumable 3.5% FHA Loan! Just Reduced to $380,000!
Anthem Country Club — 3 Bedrooms, Den, Bonus Room, 3.5 Baths. Almost 1/2‑Acre Lot with Pool! New Interior & Exterior Paint, New Carpet! Amazing Desert & Golf Views!
Anthem Country Club — 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths. Brand New Exterior Paint, All New Vinyl Plank Flooring & Carpet! Great Vacation Home with Shutters, Synthetic Turf & Putting Green! Just Reduced to $420,000!
Anthem Parkside Paseo — 3 Bedrooms, Den, 2.5 Baths. Cluster Home with New Pergola on Patio! Granite Kitchen & White Cabinets, Newer Refrigerator, Washer & Dryer! Super Convenient Location!
Aventura Condominiums in Scottsdale — 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths. Gorgeous Remodel in Scottsdale. Updated Floors, Great Room, Kitchen & Baths! Community Pools, Spa & Tennis!
Bedrooms, Den, 2 Baths. Desert and Spa, Remodeled Kitchen!
5
Extraordinary Realtors
602-677-4130
Sketch Your Vision Start with a sketch showing the dimensions of the shelves, sides, footers, headers, and trim for your bookcase. For a pair of open bookshelves, your shopping list should include four sheets of 3/4-inch medium- density fiberboard (MDF), 2x4 scrap pieces to serve as vertical spacers between bookshelves, oil-based primer, semi-gloss paint, sandpaper, and 1–2 tubes of caulk. Before you start, consider painting the wall behind the bookshelves the same color as planned for the shelves. Measure and Cut A typical width for bookshelves is about 12 inches, with 4–7-inch footers and headers, and 2-1/2-inch trim pieces. Cut shelves and side pieces parallel to the longest dimension of the MDF. Use a miter saw to cut each 12-inch piece to the desired lengths for the sides and shelving. Next, cut two scrap-wood spacers as long as the planned distance between shelves. Begin assembling your bookshelf by standing each side piece on its side, using clamps to attach the shortest spacers to the bottom of each side piece. Place the bottom shelf
on top of the spacers and drive finishing nails through the sides to secure them in place. Repeat the process with each shelf. The Grand Finale The last shelf piece is the top of the bookcase and should lie flush with the sides. Attach a final support piece across the back, touching the bottom of the last shelf piece and lying flush with the backs of the bookcase sides. Stand the bookcase upright and use screws or metal brackets to attach the support piece to studs in the wall. Attach the footer and header strips to the top and bottom of the bookcase to achieve a more finished look. To make your creation appear more substantial, you can attach 2 1/2-inch strips of MDF to the front of each side piece and shelf. Sand the raw edges of the MDF, caulk the seams, and cover your entire creation with an oil-based primer. Then, top it off with two coats of semi-gloss paint. Now, step back and appreciate your creation. You’ve achieved a master-carpenter look on a bargain budget!
Built-in custom cabinetry and shelving are popular trends in home design and remodeling. They increase a house's value and storage space. However, custom carpentry costs have soared, making DIY built-ins the only affordable option for many homeowners. If you envision a wall of custom bookcases but can’t afford a carpenter, here are three guidelines for DIY success. Built-In on a Budget Create Custom Bookshelves Without Breaking the Bank
THE EXPENSIVE SIDE OF ‘YES’ FOMO Fuels Overspending
We all know the feeling: A friend posts that dreamy beach photo, someone’s heading to a music festival, or you see the perfect brunch video pop up on your feed, and suddenly there’s this itch, “What did I miss out on?” That whisper has a name: FOMO, or the fear of missing out, and when it nudges you to open your wallet, it becomes FOMO spending. FOMO spending is when the urge to partake in experiences like concerts, travel, and social getaways overrides your financial boundaries. It’s not just about wanting “stuff”; it’s about wanting in. The problem is that those desires often come with a huge price tag. Studies suggest this isn’t just anecdotal. Empower’s research found that 51% of Americans admit they’ve made purchases or investments sparked by FOMO, with many pointing to experiences like dining out
and traveling. When social media becomes a nonstop highlight reel, we compare ourselves and our bank accounts to a filtered ideal. The stakes are real. The 2019 Modern Wealth Survey sponsored by Charles Schwab revealed that more than a third of Americans admit their spending is influenced by what friends are doing, often leading them to exceed their means. In an experimental study, researchers found that FOMO significantly increased the likelihood of impulse purchases even with budget constraints in place. That tells us FOMO isn't just temptation; it’s a powerful nudge against rational behavior. Experiences are powerful. They build memories, foster connections, and bring joy. But when every experience becomes “must- do,” the balance breaks. You end up chasing the next event, trip, or spending spree, and
your long-term goals take a back seat. You
might skip saving, rack up credit card debt, or delay retirement goals all in pursuit of that next “memorable” moment. Here’s the catch: Living for the moment is fine until that moment’s price tag pushes your future out of reach. The challenge is to be intentional. Deciding where you should spend your energy (and money) gives you permission to skip the rest. The thrill of one impulsive decision fades fast; the peace of financial security lasts. If FOMO is the voice telling you to just go for it, try asking yourself: Will I thank myself in five years for this? Strike a balance between living fully today and protecting tomorrow. That’s how you stop FOMO from bankrupting your joy.
6
DLJonesHomes.com
Dennis & Lisa Jones
Take a Break
CELEBRATE AT OUR CLIENT APPRECIATION OPEN HOUSE Mix, Mingle, and Make Memories With Us!
BOOTS CANDLES CARNATION FURNACE
GARNET HOCKEY INSULATE JANUS
OPPOSITE RESOLUTION
You are invited to our Open House! Sunday, Feb. 1, 2–6 p.m. Drop in anytime! Come & go as your schedule permits! 42513 N. Cross Timbers Ct. Anthem, AZ 85086 • Professionally Catered ~ Appetizers, Desserts, and Drinks! • Professional Photo Booth ~ Formal or Fun! Bring your Smile! • Make New Friends ~ You already have something in common: us! To help protect the flooring and ensure a comfortable atmosphere for all guests, we kindly ask that spiked heels, children, and pets sit this one out. Thank you for understanding!
SKATING SWEATER
RSVP to Lisa at 602-677-4130 or Lisa@DLJonesHomes.com by Jan. 23 .
7
Extraordinary Realtors
602-677-4130
Inside 2026 Is Calling. What Is on Your Bucket List? 2025 in Review: How Do We Measure Success?
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
1
2
Lisa & Dennis Jones
3668 W. Anthem Way, Ste. B-158 • Anthem, AZ 85086 602-677-4130 • DLJonesHomes.com
3
‘Souper Bowl’ Chicken Chili
Let the Kids Steer Your Next Trip
4
Elevate Your Routine With a Touch of Paris
5 6
New Year, New Home!
Simple Steps for Crafting Your Own Custom Bookshelves
FOMO Spending Is Breaking the Bank
7
A Warm Welcome Awaits You at Our Client Appreciation Event
Take a Break
8
Your Guide to the Great Barrier Reef’s Most Epic Experiences
Underwater, the options are endless. Lizard Island is a snorkeler’s paradise where you can float above giant clam beds and glide alongside green turtles. Divers flock to Cod Hole for an up-close look at the Reef’s most famous marine residents, while those craving a more remote experience can hop aboard a dive ship to explore untouched corners teeming with biodiversity. Prefer to keep your head dry? The 74 tropical Whitsunday Islands are perfect for cruising, whether on a bareboat charter or a luxury superyacht. For a show-stopping perspective, consider a scenic helicopter transfer to the Outer Reef. From the air, the patterns of coral, tiny secluded islands, and endless shades of blue make it clear just how massive this natural wonder truly is. For a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, the Reefsleep Experience takes you to Hardy Reef after day-trippers have left. Snorkel, dive, or relax on the Reefworld platform, then enjoy a barbecue as the sun sets. When night falls, snuggle into your floating tent under the stars or take a night dive to see the reef glow in a completely different light. Thrill-seekers, take note: Mission Beach offers a jaw-dropping skydiving experience over the reef and surrounding rainforest, plunging from 15,000 feet with expert guides to ensure an unforgettable ride. No matter how you experience it (by snorkel, yacht, helicopter, or parachute), the Great Barrier Reef is an adventure that promises awe, excitement, and memories you’ll treasure forever.
Uncover the Magic of Australia’s Living Wonder
Swim With Turtles, Whales, and Wonder at the Great Barrier Reef
If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring a place so vast it dwarfs entire countries, Australia’s Great Barrier Reef should be at the top of your bucket list. Stretching over 1,400 miles along the eastern coastline, this paradise is larger than the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Belgium, and the Netherlands combined! The Great Barrier Reef is home to dazzling coral gardens, colorful fish, giant clams, and six of the seven known marine turtle species. From snorkelers to skydivers, the Reef offers something unforgettable for every kind of adventurer.
8
DLJonesHomes.com
Published by Newsletter Pro • NewsletterPro.com
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator