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602-677-4130 • DLJonesHomes.com May/June 2024 North Valley Pride
Real Estate and Remodeling Under One Roof A Bold New Venture Blending Real Estate Expertise With Home Design
Thirteen years ago, Lisa and I embarked on what would become one of the most rewarding journeys of our lives. We set up our real estate office with a dream to make a difference in the Anthem community, guiding countless families and individuals through one of the most significant decisions of their lives. Little did we know, our adventure was only beginning. Today, I am filled with immense gratitude and excitement for what is next. You see, we have just turned a new leaf in our story, one that brings together the real estate and home remodeling worlds in a way that has never been done previously in our community. In a thrilling new partnership with my son and his business partner, the masterminds behind Repic Builders, we are introducing an innovative concept here in our office. We are transforming our space into a hub for real estate transactions and a remodeling showroom. When you step into our office to chat about finding your dream home, you can also start imagining and planning its transformation. The idea came from a simple realization: Almost everyone who buys a home is itching to add their personal stamp, to modify the space that truly reflects who they are. And why not? A home is not just a building; it is a sanctuary, a place of comfort and self-expression. Thus, Lisa and I
thought, why not simplify the process? Why not create a space where the journey from buying to personalizing a home is seamless and enjoyable?
But our showroom is more than just a place to pick out tiles or fixtures. We are offering a space where imagination meets practicality. Here, you can explore the latest trends in interior design, find inspiration for your projects, and see firsthand the quality and variety of options available. We want to make dream homes a reality. We are not stopping at just offering a wide range of remodeling options. The showroom will also serve as a community hub, where Repic Builders will host workshops, design consultations, and events that bring together homeowners, design enthusiasts, and experts from various fields. We aim to start a dialogue, share knowledge, and create a community of people who take pride in their homes. Our newly remodeled office at 3668 W Anthem Way, Suite B158, is our pledge to the Anthem community. We are not just here to stay, but to grow, innovate, and provide even more value to the people we serve. We are excited to welcome you into our remodeled space, where the possibilities of real estate and home design converge. Here’s to new beginnings, innovation, and a community that has always been the heart of our story. We cannot wait to see you there!
Our collaboration with Repic Builders is no coincidence. Founded in 2014 by Rick Mitch, Repic Builders has become synonymous with quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction in home remodeling. Their reputation for outstanding craftsmanship and custom renovations precedes them, making them the perfect partners for our new venture.
–Dennis Jones
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Extraordinary Realtors
602-677-4130
Dennis & Lisa Jones
A FUN AND EDUCATIONAL TWIST ON A CLASSIC Bouncing Bubbles 101
Every parent wants to engage their kids in playful and educational activities. One exciting and easy-to-set-up activity is the bouncing bubble. This activity promises an afternoon of fun while exploring the science behind bubbles. To start this bubbly adventure, you need a simple concoction: 4 tablespoons of water, 1 tablespoon of liquid dish soap, and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Gently mix the water and soap, then add the sugar and mix until dissolved. (You can easily scale up the recipe for a larger crowd using cups instead of tablespoons in the same ratios.) Now, the real magic happens. Kids can dip their bubble wands into the mixture and blow bubbles into the air. Now, though, the bubbles won’t pop. The secret lies in wearing knit gloves or long sweater sleeves. Watch the magic happen as kids try catching and bouncing the bubbles with their gloves or sleeves. It’s unpredictable and exciting to see when the bubbles finally burst; you can even make it a counting game. The science of this bouncing is an excellent opportunity to explore how bubbles form. The kids will question why these bubbles bounce, so why not make it educational? Explain that sugar fortifies the bubble’s elastic surface (thus raising surface tension); this answer may lead to other questions, and kids won’t feel lectured because you’re answering their questions.
This activity requires minimal resources, making it a convenient option for impromptu fun. As children revel in the joy of catching and bouncing bubbles, they can learn about this science, which fosters curiosity and discovery. So, grab your bubble wands and dive into this activity that turns ordinary bubbles into bouncing balls and curious kids into scientists to create lasting memories.
How We Found Dad’s New Home Together THE ROLE OF REAL ESTATE IN LIFE’S MAJOR FAMILY TRANSITIONS
This year’s Father’s Day brings a poignant reminder of the transitions we face in life, especially as our parents age. Nearly a year and a half ago, my family and I said goodbye to my mom. She left us just two weeks shy of celebrating 58 years of marriage with my dad. Since then, my dad, now 82, has been living alone in Virginia, a reality that became harder for us all as time passed. The decision to move him across the country to be closer to family was not easy, but we needed to be closer to be able to help him. Surprisingly, many people were able to connect with this journey. Whether you have done something similar, need to help a family member make a move, or know someone in the process, relocating an elderly parent is a shared experience among many of us.
specializing in helping seniors downsize to navigating the restrictions of the HOA that would not allow garage sales or auctions, each step required careful consideration. Ultimately, we chose an online auction company for his possessions that could not make the move to Arizona. For the actual move, we weighed all our options. The idea of a cross- country drive in a U-Haul was daunting. In the end, we opted for a Pod, loaded by professional movers, to be shipped directly to his new home, where professionals handled the unloading. This solution offered peace of mind without unloading his belongings multiple times. Finding the right place for Dad was another big step. We explored purchasing a home, but we quickly realized that an Independent Living apartment in a senior living community offered the continuity of care he might need in the future and offered him activities to keep him busy, companionship to prevent loneliness and meals, housekeeping and
In our journey, we tapped into every resource available to make my dad’s transition as smooth as possible. From companies
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Dennis & Lisa Jones
LISA’S KITCHEN
3 FASCINATING FACTS The Amazing Aztec Nation
With Cinco de Mayo upon us, we thought this delicious recipe would be fun to share. We love this rice as a side dish to all of our Mexican favorites! Inspired by At Home Café. FIESTA RICE
INGREDIENTS
The Aztecs were an expansive and vibrant nation when the Spanish arrived in the New World around 1519. They had a rich culture, innovative agriculture, and one of the world’s most impressive cities. Many fascinating facts about them are not taught in school, so prepare to be amazed. They worshipped chocolate. Chocolate was hugely important to the Aztecs — the delicious substance was part of many religious and cultural ceremonies. It was also used as currency to buy everything from food to clothes. As a result, only royals consumed chocolate because they were literally eating money. The most popular method for drinking chocolate was a cold and frothy concoction of ground chocolate, seeds, and spices sweetened with honey. Royalty emphasized frothiness and used various techniques to maximize it. For example, they poured cold cocoa while standing up into a cup on the ground. They built floating gardens. Aztec agriculture relied on floating gardens. They would create tiny islands called “chinampas” near modern-day Mexico City. Chinampas were built by braiding reeds with stakes underwater. These aquatic fences accumulated mud and vegetation until they became visible on the surface. The Aztecs built canals around them for transportation.
• 4 tbsp olive oil • 1 large onion, finely chopped • 2 cloves garlic, minced • 1 1/2 cups medium-grain rice, uncooked • 4 cups water
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2 8-oz cans tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp chili powder • Salt and pepper to taste • 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated • 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese, grated
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 450 F. 2. In a medium saucepan, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until tender, then add rice and cook until golden. 3. Add water, tomato sauce, and seasonings, then cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes. 4. Spray 2-quart casserole with cooking spray or grease with butter. 5. Spoon rice mixture into casserole dish and top evenly with cheese. 6. Bake for 5–8 minutes or until cheese bubbles.
maintenance to allow him to enjoy life without any worries or hassles. Now, he is just five minutes away from us, a change that has brought immeasurable comfort and joy to our lives. This whole experience has underscored for me how real estate is not just about transactions. We help people navigate the significant
Why did they go through the trouble? Chinampas offer several benefits. First, they’re fertile and can grow anything from beans to flowers. They also allow people to take advantage of the river and maximize their limited space. Furthermore, they promote bio-diversity, which is helpful for everyone. For these reasons and more, chinampas are still used around Mexico City and the country’s southern areas. Their capital city was an ancient marvel. When the Spanish arrived, Tenochtitlan was among the world’s largest cities. It had a population of over 200,000. Only Paris and Constantinople were bigger. This ancient capital of the Aztecs was also built in the center of a lake. Boats surrounded the city and were used for trade, transportation, and agriculture. The Spanish drained the lake to expand the city’s borders, but the lake’s wet soil remains, and Mexico City sinks a little each year. Unfortunately, the Aztec Empire fell after disease ravaged their population and the conquistadors betrayed and murdered their leadership. That’s not to say the Aztecs vanished. While their reign ended centuries ago, their legacy lives on in Mexico.
transitions in their lives. For those of you contemplating similar moves for your loved ones, remember you are not alone. We are here to offer our expertise and resources, including discounted rates with moving services like Pods. In this full-circle moment, just as our parents cared for us, we now take our turn to do the same for them. Feel free to reach out to me if I can help make this transition smoother for you and your family! –Lisa Jones
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Extraordinary Realtors
602-677-4130
Check Out These Hot Properties! Our current summer listings include an impressive variety of homes, each with its own unique features and style. And remember ... we are always on the lookout for stunning properties to feature on our “American Dream Valley of the Sun” TV show. Check out the latest episodes on our website at DLJonesHomes.com .
As spring turns to summer and the weather gets hotter, it’s the perfect time to shift our focus to the heart of home comfort — your HVAC system. Spring maintenance is more than just a routine check; it is a key investment in the longevity and efficiency of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. As the temperature rises, investing in spring HVAC maintenance becomes essential for a worry-free and efficient home climate control system. Here are four reasons why committing to seasonal upkeep ensures a comfortable and trouble-free home. Efficiency Boost Spring HVAC maintenance involves a comprehensive inspection of your system, cleaning or replacing filters, and checking for any worn-out components. This meticulous approach enhances the system’s efficiency by allowing it to operate smoothly. A well-maintained HVAC system translates into lower energy consumption and reduced utility bills, contributing to environmental sustainability and cost savings. Preventing Costly Repairs Regular maintenance helps identify and address potential issues before they escalate into expensive repairs. Mechanical components like belts, motors, and electrical connections are examined to catch any signs of wear or malfunction. It’s financially smart to address these small problems early on instead of allowing them to snowball into major, expensive repairs down the road. Extended System Lifespan Spring-Cleaning Your HVAC Makes Cents
Anthem Country Club — 4 Bedrooms, Den, 3.5 Baths — Reduced to $825,000
Everyone knows that regular oil changes extend the life of your car, and spring cleaning your HVAC similarly prolongs the lifespan of your heating and cooling system. By addressing regular wear and tear, cleaning coils, and ensuring proper lubrication, you’re investing in the long-term health of your HVAC unit. As mentioned, this can save you from premature costs incurred by an unmaintained system. Enhanced Indoor Air Quality Over the winter months, dust, debris, and allergens can accumulate within your HVAC system, compromising indoor air quality. Spring maintenance involves a thorough cleaning of the interior mechanics like air ducts and filters, ensuring the air in your home is clean and you are healthy. As the pollen count rises with spring, it’s especially crucial for households with allergy sufferers.
Cave Creek — 3 Bedrooms, Den, 3 Baths, 1.93 Acre Lot Reduced to $1,225,000
Anthem Parkside — 4 Bed 4 Car Garage —
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Dennis & Lisa Jones
This year brings a new wave of interior design trends, transforming homes into havens of style and functionality. These trends offer a glimpse into the evolving landscape of interior design, but they’re not entirely new. Let’s explore the key trends shaping the homes of today and tomorrow. Sustainable living takes center stage. Sustainable and eco-friendly materials are gaining popularity, reflecting our commitment to reducing our carbon footprint in our living spaces. This isn’t new, as many homeowners and renters try their best to find and refurbish furniture made of recycled materials and use energy-efficient appliances and lighting. This trend continues as we embrace more sustainable designs. Biophilic design contributes to tranquil spaces. Biophilic design incorporates nature within Functional and Sustainable Trends for Your Home in 2024
Anthem Country Club - 2 Bedrooms, Den, 2 Baths, Corner Lot $575,000
a living space, such as putting plants in living rooms, bedrooms, and bathrooms. Integrating this and other natural elements like water features and ample natural light will help blend these spaces. The trend also includes plant-inspired textiles, e.g., pillows, curtains, upholstery, etc. These details bring tranquility and continue a tradition of melding the inside and outside without harsh boundaries. Maximalism makes a comeback.
Anthem Country Club — 2 Bedrooms, Den, 2.5 Baths, Golf and Mountain Views — $750,000
The minimalism of the 2010s is out. Maximalism is in, which means bold and vibrant colors and eclectic decor choices are gaining momentum. More people are embracing the idea that more is more, creating visually stunning spaces that reflect their personalities and diverse interests rather than opting for a sterile, monochrome ambiance. Home offices evolve. The rise of remote work has transformed the way we use homes. In 2024, the home office continues to evolve to accommodate this work-from-home hybrid model. Versatile yet ergonomic furniture, innovative but out- of-sight storage solutions, and personalized technology integration are becoming staples, creating home environments conducive to work and everyday living. Multifunctional furniture enables flexible living. With space optimization becoming increasingly important, multifunctional furniture is gaining popularity. Homes must adapt to various needs, so why shouldn’t your furniture do the same? Sofa beds, convertible tables, and modular storage units are some popular ways to ensure your furniture is efficient and beautiful.
Anthem Country Club — 4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths, Private Pool —Reduced to $999,999
drooms, Den, 2.5 Baths, — $969,000
Anthem Country Club — 3 Bedrooms (incl. Casita), Den, 3 Baths — $575,000
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Extraordinary Realtors
602-677-4130
Gear Up Your Pup for a Hiking Adventure PAW-SOME ADVENTURES
Boots While some dogs may resist wearing boots, they can be a lifesaver in challenging terrains. Opt for boots that protect without compromising comfort. Though you likely may avoid trails with terrain that could harm your dog’s paws, having boots in your pack is, at least, a proactive measure for unforeseen circumstances, ensuring your canine companion’s paws are protected if needed. Waste Bags Be responsible out on the trail. That means bringing poop bags. Attach them to the outside of your backpack or tote bag for convenient access once your dog has completed its business. The “leave no trace” practice will help maintain the pristine beauty of the trail for everyone to enjoy. Emergency Harness Preparedness is critical, and an emergency harness adds an extra layer of safety. A proper harness will allow you to carry your dog on your back in an emergency. This versatile harness ensures that you can provide assistance in challenging situations.
Since the ’70s, household robots have been an American fantasy. Engineers have been tirelessly working and building machines to automate everyday tasks with limited success — until recently. The success of the Roomba kicked off an explosion in consumer robotics, while developments in AI make them brighter than ever. Here are four new robots built to make life that much easier. Amazon Astro: The Astro is Amazon’s first foray into consumer robotics. Designed to work with the Ring system, its primary directive is defending the home. It has a powerful scanner to detect any threats, whether burglars or gas leaks, and it alerts you while recording it on the Ring app. And it’s capable of much more than just that: It can check your blood pressure, charge phones, and more. Unfortunately, the Astro is expensive, coming in at around $1,599. ORo: Ever wish you could play with your dog anytime, anywhere? The ORo might be just what you’re looking for. It plays fetch and records anything unusual with your dog’s behavior. While you’re away, you can also video chat with your pups in an interactive setting. The ORo hasn’t been released yet, but it’s projected to cost around $800. The Next Wave of Robotic Tech Is Here! Setting out on a hiking adventure with your furry friend is a rewarding experience, but ensuring their safety and comfort on the trail requires careful consideration of essential gear. Before heading out, consider your dog’s unique needs and preferences so it’s an enjoyable and bonding adventure for you both. Here’s an introduction to some must-have hiking gear for your canine companion. Food and Water One of the most important aspects of hiking is staying well-nourished and hydrated. Packing more water than you think may be necessary is crucial, especially on a trail where natural water sources may be scarce. An ample supply of dog-friendly food is also essential, with the quantity adjusted based on the hike’s duration. A collapsible bowl will be handy for feeding your canine companion during breaks. First-Aid Kit Safety should always come first. A dog first-aid kit is indispensable for addressing unexpected issues on the trail. These compact kits typically include dressings, bandages, and tools for removing ticks or thorns. Being prepared for minor injuries ensures you can safely complete the hike without making any injury worse.
Moxie: This friendly blue robot is built to teach young children from ages 5–10. It has an expressive human-like face, ensuring children feel comfortable. Moxie teaches all sorts of skills, from problem-solving to regulating emotion. It also has plenty of game options to keep kids entertained. Moxie costs $799, but it can be purchased refurbished. Matic: The floor-cleaning Matic takes the old Roomba to the next level. It not only vacuums; it mops and cleans spills, too. The Matic has intelligent pathfinding, allowing it to avoid obstacles, including toys and feet. Once the bag fills up, it automatically parks next to the trashcan. This premium robot comes at a premium price of around $1,795. Companies are working hard to create the newest wave of advanced robotics. So, if you’re interested in awe-inspiring automatons, you have plenty to be thrilled about.
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Dennis & Lisa Jones
Reflecting on the relationships we have built over the years, our clients are clearly so much more than just clients; they become part of our family. One particularly touching story unfolded at our client appreciation event this past January, demonstrating how profound these connections can be. One of our most cherished clients, Jim, a double Purple Heart Vietnam Marine veteran who has bravely faced the lasting impacts of his service, attended the event. His journey has been a remarkable one, but at this gathering, something special occurred. WHY OUR CLIENT EVENTS ARE MORE THAN JUST GET-TOGETHERS Unbreakable Bonds of Community
Take a Break
During the event, Jim met Lance and Stephanie, a couple with a unique tie to Lisa’s family history. They shared a connection through Lisa’s uncle, who tragically lost his life in Vietnam. Lance played baseball with Lisa’s Uncle Bruce. This common bond sparked an immediate friendship among them. Several years ago, Stephanie created a Quilt of Valor for Lisa’s family as a heartfelt gift that symbolizes respect and gratitude for the sacrifice made by her uncle. At our client appreciation event, she and Lance were moved by the stories Jim shared that evening.
BLOOM CINCO COMIC DERBY
EMERALD GEMINI GRADUATION LILY
MEMORIAL MOTHER RENEWAL VETERANS
The warmth and camaraderie of that night did not end there. Learning about Jim’s service, Lance and Stephanie felt compelled to extend their generosity further. They created another Quilt of Valor, this time for Jim. We organized a Sunday dinner at our home as an intimate setting for Stephanie to present her labor of love to Jim, an act that deeply moved everyone present. This event and the beautiful moments it inspired underscore the profound relationships we have cultivated over the years. Our clients, like Jim, Lance, and Stephanie, become the fabric of our lives, weaving a tapestry of shared experiences and mutual respect. These connections transcend the usual client-agent relationship, creating bonds that last a lifetime. As real estate professionals, we cherish these moments that remind us of the real impact of our work. What we do is not just about houses but about creating a community, forming friendships, and supporting one another through life’s journey. Our client appreciation events celebrate the family we have built along the way and the extraordinary stories that continue to unfold.
–Dennis and Lisa Jones
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Extraordinary Realtors
602-677-4130
Inside Reimagine Home Ownership at Our Office Bubble Bonanza! Lisa’s Journey Moving Her Dad Closer to Home Fiesta Rice Lesser-Known Aztec Facts That Will Amaze You 4 Reasons to Spring-Clean Your HVAC System Check Out These Hot Properties! A Symphony of Colors, Patterns, and Bold Statements Paws and Paths! The Game-Changing Robots of Tomorrow How a Heartfelt Gift Symbolizes a Community, Not Just Clients Take a Break
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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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Retracing Your Steps for Better Health
REVERSE YOUR ROUTINE THE PHYSICAL AND MENTAL GAINS OF RETRO WALKING
Psychologists and self-help gurus say it doesn’t help to dwell on where you’ve been. But what if walking backward — literally — could benefit your health? According to a 2023 CNN health report, walking backward is a unique exercise regimen with potential advantages for your joints. Contrary to traditional forward walking, retro walking, as it is often referred to, engages different muscle groups, fosters improved balance, and contributes to overall fitness in various ways. One of the primary benefits is the engagement of muscle groups not heavily used in forward walking. When walking backward, you use your hamstrings, calves, and glutes to a greater extent. This variance in muscle engagement can lead to enhanced strength and toning, providing a good workout. Walking backward can be particularly beneficial for those recovering from injuries and/or dealing with joint issues. The unique motion of retro walking puts less strain on the knees, making it a safer
alternative for damaged joints that still delivers cardiovascular benefits through a low-impact workout.
As people age, balance and coordination are crucial components of overall fitness. Retro walking challenges both brain and body to adapt to a different spatial orientation, enhancing coordination. For older adults looking to maintain or improve their balance, retro walking can be a tactic to reduce the risks of falls and related injuries. Just start slow. The psychological benefits of walking backward also cannot be overlooked. It’s just plain fun to walk backward, and the low stakes of this exercise can excite those doing it to continue adhering to it. While walking backward may seem unconventional, the benefits are compelling. From targeted muscle engagement to reduced joint impact and enhanced balance, incorporating retro walking into your fitness routine can be a valuable addition. As always, it’s best to ask your primary care physician if it would suit your unique needs.
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