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602-677-4130 • DLJonesHomes.com January/February 2025 North Valley Pride
Embrace Fresh Starts Any Day HOW TO HARNESS THE NEW YEAR’S MOMENTUM ALL YEAR LONG
Why do we wait until January to start thinking about change? The dawn of a new year always sparks excitement, motivation, and fully charged resolutions that do not always stick. As we all know, Jan. 1 symbolizes an opportunity for new beginnings and fresh starts. But we have recently been asking ourselves a not-so-easy question: Why wait? We possess the power to commence anew at any moment we choose — the start of a day, week, or hour. As Dennis likes to say, “You can always start your diet in the middle of a bag of chips!” Once we embrace the ongoing option to restart, we feel a newfound sense of liberation. This idea frees us from waiting for the “perfect moment” to make changes. Every day presents a fresh canvas on which we can paint our aspirations and actions however we please. As real estate agents, we often get to be a part of clients’ significant life transitions — like buying a first home or moving into a new neighborhood — and see how these moments mark new beginnings. While the magic of Jan. 1 is universally felt, offering a collective moment of transition, the true magic lies in your personal resolve and readiness to embrace change. This magic is why we love what we do; real estate is all about fresh starts and new chapters. Whether you are downsizing, upgrading, or buying your first home, each move symbolizes a leap toward something new and exciting. When starting fresh and setting goals, our success often hinges on having a reliable support system. Accountability plays a critical role in turning resolutions into realities. This year, we want to extend an invitation to become your accountability partners. If you are setting goals for 2025, whether they are related to property, personal growth, or any other ambition, consider us your allies on this journey.
The beauty of new beginnings is that they can happen at any time. You do not have to wait for a specific date to make significant changes. If today feels right, why not start today? We have seen countless clients, friends, and family embrace this mindset, and the transformations are truly inspiring. “Accountability plays a critical role in turning resolutions into realities. This year, we want to extend an invitation to become your accountability partners.” This year, let us challenge the norm by setting goals and actively pursuing them beyond the enthusiasm of January. With the right support and grit, we can maintain our momentum throughout 2025, supporting each other every step of the way. If you have goals you are eager to achieve and want someone to help keep you on track, please feel free to reach out. You can email Lisa at lisa@dljoneshomes.com . We are more than just your real estate agents; we are your partners in making 2025 a year of action and achievement. Here’s to turning the page whenever we decide the time is right, not just when the calendar turns to Jan. 1. We wish you a year of limitless possibilities and the joy of making every day a fresh start. Cheers to a prosperous and fulfilling 2025!
–Dennis and Lisa Jones
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Dennis & Lisa Jones
Real estate scams have become a hot topic in our community! Business Wire revealed that one in 10 Americans were targeted in real estate fraud in 2023 alone . Even Lisa received a malicious phone call that could have seriously gone sideways if she was not careful ( and an expert in our field ). After our last newsletter’s article on real estate fraud, our readers asked us to dive deeper and we are going to explore the world of deed fraud in this edition. What Exactly Is Deed Fraud? Deed fraud, also known as “house stealing” or “property title theft,” occurs when someone illegitimately claims ownership of a property by using forged documents. This fraud is particularly common with Learn How to Guard Against Deed Fraud Before It Is Too Late IS YOUR PROPERTY SAFE?
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Evaluate Requests Carefully: If someone asks for signatures related to your property, scrutinize the documents thoroughly before complying.
properties that the owner does not regularly monitor.
Deed fraud can happen to anyone looking to purchase property. Just recently, Lisa received a call from a Florida number about listing a piece of land in Peoria. The caller, who apparently found Lisa through Zillow, immediately set off alarm bells with his vague responses and false identification and later turned out to be completely fake. Fortunately, Lisa spotted the red flags and verified his identity and signatures with our local title company. Then the actual owner was alerted. Steps to Shield Yourself From Deed Fraud Protecting yourself from deed fraud involves a few proactive steps:
If Fraud Strikes, Here Is What You Should Do If you find yourself a victim of deed fraud: 1. Report to Authorities: Contact your local police to start an official investigation. 2. Inform the County Recorder: This call will help prevent further fraudulent activity. 3. Seek Legal Counsel: A real estate attorney can guide you through correcting your property records. 4. Contact Your Title Insurance: If you have title insurance, the policy may cover legal fees for restoring your property rights. Need More Information? We take the security of your property very seriously. If you are looking for more detailed information on how to protect your real estate investments, please reach out. Email us at Lisa@DLJonesHomes.com , and we will ensure your real estate transactions are safe and sound. We will continue to share even more valuable information on fraud protection and real estate market insight in our upcoming newsletters. Be sure to check your mailbox and inbox! –Dennis and Lisa Jones
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Register for Alerts: Many counties offer services that alert property owners to any changes in their property records. This essential tool is helpful in early fraud detection. Maricopa residents can sign up at Recorder.Maricopa.gov/ recording/title-alert.html Regularly Check Your Property Records: Make a habit of reviewing your property’s records online to spot any unauthorized changes or claims. Safeguard Your Documents: Store all property-related documents securely and be cautious about sharing information regarding your property deeds.
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Walt Disney World Without the Wallet Woes
For years, a visit to Walt Disney World felt like an essential part of the American upbringing. There’s nothing quite like taking a picture with Mickey Mouse, the unique water smell in the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, or the night-time fireworks spectacle over Cinderella Castle. However, the cost of a Disney vacation has increased significantly in recent years, and features that helped make the trip more magical, like free transportation to and from the airport, are a thing of the past. Many families struggle to save enough money to travel to Orlando to visit Disney World. Thankfully, cost-saving strategies can help get you and your loved ones in front of the castle. Have a plan for snacks and meals before arriving at the park. Disney parks are well-known for their world-class restaurants and food options, but with good quality comes a higher cost. A soft pretzel shaped like Mickey Mouse with cheese sauce costs more than $8; buying more than one adds up quickly. Disney allows you to bring your own snacks and nonalcoholic beverages into the park, so consider taking advantage of that. Make a budget, research
the restaurants beforehand, and have everyone pick out what they want to eat so you know exactly how much food will cost. Avoid Disney hotels.
Disney’s hotels have different price tiers. Deluxe resorts like Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge usually cost around $500 a night. Moderate- tier resorts like Disney’s Coronado Springs can run anywhere from $250–$500, depending on the season. And the value resorts usually stay under $250 a night. However, if you were to stay at a non-Disney hotel, you’d pay a fraction of the price while still being close to the parks. Consider hiring a travel agent. This might sound counterproductive if you’re trying to save money, but Disney works closely with various travel agencies to help park-goers cut costs and reduce stress. They will help plan every aspect of your trip and ensure you get all meal reservations and Lightning Lanes your family wants. They’re also the first to know when discounts go live, so they can ensure you get resort and ticket prices at the best value.
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LISA’S KITCHEN
CUTTING EDGE CARE Keep Your Knives Sharp and Rust-Free
Inspired by CookingProfessionally.com French Onion Baked Chicken
Your kitchen knives are one of the most essential tools in your cooking arsenal, and when properly caring for them, you don’t want to cut any corners. A sharp blade is a chef’s best friend, and to ensure your knives slice and dice with ease, you must keep them in top condition. Here are three hacks to keep your knives performing their best for years. No Rust, Clean Cuts When cleaning your knives, always wash them by hand and be ready with a dry towel. Drying your blade right after washing is crucial to prevent rust and other damage. You should avoid leaving knives to soak overnight. Additionally, air drying them could cause the blade to dull faster. As a general rule, any cooking tool that needs to be sharp should never go through the dishwasher. The machine can dull and damage the blades and cause them to rust. Stay Sharp, Stay Safe Knives must be sharp to prevent mishaps such as cutting yourself accidentally. To ensure your knives are ready to cut through anything, sharpen them at least twice a year. You can learn how to do this yourself, and the best method is to use a sharpening stone, also known as a whetstone. You could also take them to a professional for a quick tuneup. When in doubt, a serrated knife is an excellent option if you don’t worry about regular maintenance. These knives stay sharper for longer. Slice Up Storage Right Magnetic knife holders are an excellent
INGREDIENTS
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3 tbsp butter 2 tsp olive oil
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 1/2 tsp kosher salt 1/2 tsp black pepper 1/2 tsp dried thyme 1 tsp garlic powder
4 large yellow onions, peeled and sliced 1/4 tsp black pepper 2 sprigs fresh thyme 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar 2/3 cup reduced-sodium beef broth, divided
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1 cup mozzarella, shredded
1/3 cup parmesan, shredded
DIRECTIONS
1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter, olive oil, and sliced onions and season with the black pepper. 2. Add the thyme sprigs to the butter mixture and cook, stirring occasionally, for 8 minutes. 3. While the onions are cooking, preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and butter a 9x13-inch baking dish. 4. Reduce the heat for the onions to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes. 5. Stir the garlic into the onions and cook for 1 minute. 6. Add the balsamic vinegar and 1/3 cup of the beef broth to the onion mixture. Stir and cook the onion mixture until it is thick with a jam-like consistency, about 1 minute.
way to store blades when not in use, but you must pay attention to how you hang them. You should
7. Add about 1/2 cup of the caramelized onions to the prepared baking dish. Add the remaining beef broth and stir. 8. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with the kosher salt, the black pepper, the dried thyme, and the garlic powder. 9. Arrange the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish and top each with a generous spoonful of the remaining caramelized onions. 10. Top the chicken and the onions with the mozzarella and the parmesan. 11. Bake until the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F, about 45 minutes. 12. Serve and enjoy!
let the spine, or the edge you don’t cut with, attach to the magnetic holder, then gently rock the knife until the edge is connected. You should not hear a noise when the knife meets the magnets. Don’t store knives in a traditional utensil holder or upside down in a block because they could bend or become dull.
So, if you want your knives to make the cut, don’t skimp on these proper care tips. Cleaning, storing, and sharpening your blades will prepare you for any culinary adventure.
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Among the countless parenting styles out there, an approach called “lighthouse parenting” is a beacon for guiding children through life’s turbulent waters while giving them the space to navigate on their own. While it may sound ideal, is it the right parenting style for your kids? What is lighthouse parenting? Coined by Dr. Ken Ginsburg, a professor of pediatrics at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, lighthouse parenting is a philosophy detailed in his book “Raising Kids to Thrive.” This approach emphasizes a balance of nurturing and communicating with children while allowing them the freedom to grow independently. Just as a lighthouse guides without steering the ship itself, lighthouse parents offer direction and ensure safety without overly controlling their children’s lives. It advocates for a balanced approach. Lighthouse parenting positions itself in the sweet spot on the parenting spectrum — not as overbearing as helicopter parenting nor as detached as free-range parenting. It focuses on being emotionally present and available, providing a safe space for children to bring up issues and learn from their experiences. This method involves: Shining the Light on Lighthouse Parenting
HAPPY NEW LISTINGS! The new year brings several new listings to market as many homeowners are ready to make a move!
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Checking in Regularly: Ensuring open lines of communication.
• Encouraging Autonomy: Allowing kids the freedom to make decisions and learn from the outcomes. • Promoting Resilience: Supporting children as they navigate challenges, helping them to develop coping skills and independence. Parents set boundaries and offer support. Unlike authoritarian parenting, which might stifle a child’s sense of independence, lighthouse parenting encourages self-reliance through trust and minimal but firm boundaries. Parents provide the framework, trusting the kids to make good decisions. This method helps to build a robust support system where children know they have the safety net of their parents’ guidance when needed. Keep the light on. Adopting the lighthouse method involves unconditional love paired with expectations and boundaries. It’s about guiding children through the complexities of growing up without removing the essential experiences that teach them about life. Of course, no single parenting style is perfect for every child. How you reinforce lighthouse parenting depends entirely on your child’s needs and developmental trajectory. Ultimately, lighthouse parenting aims to prepare children to thrive independently, ensuring they know the way back to shore, no matter how far away they sail.
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Secret Passages Aren’t Just for Mansions Craft Your Own Secret Door With Murphy Door Kits!
Have you ever dreamt of having your own secret passage? Well, now you can with a DIY Murphy Door kit! Transform any ordinary doorway into a hidden entrance and bring a touch of mystery to your home. Whether it’s a doorway to your study or a sneaky side entrance to your pantry, the Murphy Door offers an easy- to-assemble kit that lets you become the architect of your own adventure. All it takes is four simple steps! Step 1: Out With the Old
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First, you need to say goodbye to your boring old door. Remove the door and
Anthem Country Club — 2 Bedrooms, Remodeled, New Vinyl Plank Floors and Kitchen Island! $450,000
the door frame you want to replace. It’s demolition day in the best possible way — no hard hats necessary, but feel free to wear one if you’re getting into the spirit! Step 2: Prep and Paint Grab your paintbrushes! But before you dip into the color, give your bookcase, jamb, and casing a good sanding with 180-grit sandpaper. This will help your chosen paint adhere better, ensuring a smoother, more professional finish. Choose a hue that complements your room, or go bold with a pop of color — this is your secret door, after all! Step 3: Assemble the Jamb Now, let’s get building. Assemble the jamb according to the instructions. The great news is that all the hardware comes with pre-drilled holes, making this part a breeze. You’ll feel like a DIY pro in no time! Step 4: Install the Hardware and Casing With the jamb in place, it’s time to add the hardware and hang your door. Then, fit the casing around it to give everything a neat finish. The precision of the pre-assembled kit ensures everything aligns perfectly, leaving no clues about the door’s true nature. Voilà! You now have a fully functioning secret door that swings right or left and can open inward or outward, depending on your preference, and when it’s closed, everyone will think it’s just an ordinary bookcase or cabinet. With its simplicity, you can start this project whenever you’re ready to add a little mystery to your living space. Why settle for a standard doorway when you can have a hidden gem?
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Is Egg Coffee the Perfect Morning Pick-Me-Up? Egg-cellent Brew
Waking up may have just gotten more egg-citing! If you can’t start your day without coffee and breakfast, why not have them in the same tasty cup? Egg coffee is the latest food trend, whisking its way through social media. People have been adding egg whites, yolks, and even shells to their morning beverage since the 1800s, and this eggy cup of Joe is now gaining popularity and raising a few eyebrows. Is egg coffee the perfect, protein-packed pick-me-up or a recipe for a stomach ache? Let’s get cracking! Let’s egg-splore the trend. Thanks to a barista sharing his favorite yolky brew recipe, egg coffee became popular on social media. He prepares the drink by cracking a whole egg into a small bowl of coffee grounds and water. Then, he boils the mix in a pan with more water before straining it into a mug. He said the resulting drink tastes like “black tea but without the astringency.” Are there egg-stra perks? Fans of yolky java enjoy the flavor. The proteins in the egg reduce the acidity and bitterness of the coffee, while the brew method
might enhance the amount of caffeine per cup. Eggs are an excellent source of protein, so starting the day
with an egg coffee could give you an energy boost and keep you full longer, reducing food cravings. It does have extra calories, about 200 in a cup, so consider that before you drink up throughout the day. The yolk’s on you? Are the health benefits and flavor really all they’re cracked up to be? There’s no question that eggs are an excellent protein source, but raw or undercooked eggs pose potential health risks. Raw eggs can contain bacteria like salmonella or E. coli, and eggshells could damage your digestive system — don’t let them free-range around your innards. To ensure your eggs are fully cooked, the temperature of the coffee needs to reach 160 degrees F. To play it safe, opt for pasteurized liquid eggs instead of cracking raw eggs directly into your mug.
Revamp Your Shopping Habits With Underconsumption Core SAY GOODBYE TO OVERBUYING
Repurpose and Rejoice Learning to repurpose is key for those who love to shop till they drop. That old dress hiding in the back of your closet? Snip it into a chic crop top. Are your jeans a tad too long? Hello, trendy shorts. Repurposing isn’t just thrifty; it’s creative. It scratches the itch for something new without the wallet woes. Plus, it’s eco-friendly! Plan, Don’t Panic Buy Impulse buys? A big no-no in the underconsumption playbook. Start each month with a plan. What do you have? What do you genuinely need? Make thoughtful decisions that value durability over disposability. This way, you’re not just saving money — you’re curating a collection of items that truly enhance your life. When you embrace underconsumption core, you tidy up your space and upgrade your life philosophy. You save money and cultivate an environment that boosts your mental health and productivity. It’s about making peace with possessing less and enjoying life more. So, next time you feel the urge to splurge, remember: Less is more, and in the case of underconsumption core, less is everything.
Move over, overconsumption. It’s time to put down our wallets and declutter our lives. Welcome to the latest TikTok craze: underconsumption core! Imagine a world where last year’s still- functioning iPhone is celebrated, and the only time you dash for more food is when your produce starts to look more like a science experiment. That’s underconsumption core — embracing the essentials, bypassing the fluff. Undercomsumption core is about stepping off the relentless consumer conveyor belt to admire and utilize what you already own. It’s a shoutout to sustainability and a bow to minimalism, all rolled into one. Declutter Like a Pro Starting on this journey? Kick it off with a decluttering session Marie Kondo would be proud of. This isn’t just about creating space — it’s about reshaping your buying habits. Once your space is clutter-free, you gain clarity on what truly matters. You’ll find yourself asking, “Do I need this, or does Instagram think I do?” The goal here is to filter out the noise of fleeting trends and focus on quality that lasts longer than a social media cycle.
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WE CAN FEEL THE LOVE!
Take a Break
Why Your Referrals Always Mean the World to Us
February, the month dedicated to love and affection, is a perfect time for us to express just how deeply we cherish our clients and your heartwarming referrals entrusted to us. Nothing is more gratifying than knowing our commitment to our clients does not just end with a transaction but blooms into lifelong relationships. Twenty years ago, when we first dipped our toes into the real estate waters, our approach was simple: treat each client with the utmost respect and care. This client-first philosophy was not a simple business strategy but our way of nurturing a community where every client felt valued. This caring approach has been the cornerstone of our business, helping us grow from novice agents to trusted advisors. Over the years, we have cherished every story of a family finding their dream home, every smile at the closing table, and every update about how our former clients have turned houses into homes. Every story is a new chapter in the ongoing relationships that extend well beyond business. The most beautiful aspect of our journey has been witnessing the power of referrals. Our clients’ trust fueled our business and created a snowball effect, bringing their friends, family, and co-workers into our real estate family. This cascade of referrals is a testament to the bonds we have built and the trust we have earned. Drawing parallels between Valentine’s Day and our gratitude for these relationships seems natural. Just as love strengthens bonds, our clients’ trust in us reinforces our commitment to serve them and their loved ones. In fact, a look at our 20-year business graph shows a significant shift. Throughout the decades, we have invested heavily in marketing, but over the last few years, we have reduced our spending. This trend is not because our business has slowed but because our clients’ referrals have fueled our growth. This shift directly results from the love and trust our clients show us daily. Looking ahead, we remain dedicated to nurturing these invaluable relationships and embracing new ones through referrals. And speaking of showing love, we are excited to invite you to our upcoming client appreciation event! As our way of saying thank you and sharing the love we feel so grateful to receive. We will have more details about our client appreciation event in our next newsletter! If you know someone considering a move this year, we would love to extend our professional care and personal attention to them. Reach out to us and we will keep sharing the love and build beautiful futures together.
BEGINNINGS BLANKETS CARNATION CAPRICORN
GARNET HEALTHY ICICLE PENGUIN
PLANNING RESOLUTION SNOWBOARD SOUPY
–Dennis and Lisa Jones
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Inside How Can We Start New Journeys Beyond New Year’s Day? Expert Tips to Detect and Defend Against Deed Fraud Plan Your Perfect Disney Escape Without Breaking the Bank French Onion Baked Chicken Master Knife Care Like a Chef Lighthouse Parenting: Illuminate the Path to Independence and Resilience Happy New Listings! Add a Touch of Mystery to Your Home With a DIY Murphy Door Crack Open a New Way to Drink Coffee Declutter With TikTok’s Latest Trend How Your Referrals Keep Us Thriving Take a Break
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
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Lisa & Dennis Jones
3668 W. Anthem Way, Ste. B-158 • Anthem, AZ 85086 602-677-4130 • DLJonesHomes.com
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Vacation in Tropical Panama
DISCOVER PANAMA An Unforgettable Tropical Paradise
The Central American country of Panama, home to the titular Panama Canal that allows easy passage of maritime traffic between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans, is more than a hub for international trade: It’s a scenic tropical paradise. Just 30,000 square miles in size — smaller than South Carolina — Panama packs a lot of incredible sites into one compact package. The country uses the American dollar, so you don’t need to exchange currency to make a worthwhile trip there. Here are three locations you can look forward to on your vacation to Panama! Panama City Founded in 1519, Panama’s capital is a metropolis amidst lush tropical rainforests. Around 40% of the country’s population resides in the city, which is full of amazing historical and entertainment districts
that attract tourists worldwide. The Casco Viejo historical district, comprised of Spanish colonial architecture, was named a World Heritage site in 1997. Isla Bastimentos National Marine Park This amazing national park, established in 1988, covers over 50 square miles and over 130 islands of the Bocas del Toro Archipelago, including the popular coral reefs of the Cayos Zapatillas. If you are interested in rubbing shoulders with monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, and countless marine species, this is the spot for you! Panama Canal No list would be complete without mentioning one of the greatest engineering feats in human history: the Panama Canal. The canal, which runs for roughly 40 miles through the Isthmus of Panama, was
completed in August 1914, just a month after the outbreak of World War I. The canal works via a system of locks, filled and emptied of water to raise and lower boats. Ships up to 950 feet long transport over 200 million tons of cargo annually through the canal. If you visit Panama, you have to see the canal for yourself!
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