Travel-and-Leisure
Arizona Real Estate: The Valley of Dreams
A Strong Economy Makes Arizona a Popular Destination Spot
Phoenix is one of the fastest growing cities in the nation, and with good reason. Phoenix and the valley area has long been a popular destination for many visitors. Whether drawn to the area to take advantage of the soothing climate or because of the beautiful, natural resources, the central area of Arizona has steadily expanded. But in the last few years, that expansion has taken off at an exponential rate. So, what exactly is it that makes Arizona so popular?
In part, Phoenix and the surrounding community of Maricopa County, is perfectly situated to attract new residents.
There are a number of factors that contribute to this areas remarkable popularity:
Strong Job Market - Phoenix has matured into a major metropolitan area that features a number of high technology industries, such as semiconductors production, aerospace companies, information processing, and research and development centers. The thriving tourism industry also supports a growing employment base. Phoenix and the surround areas have a low unemployment rate of 4.2 percent. There are many great job opportunities in the area for residents and is understandably an attractive destination for those interested in relocating.
Low Crime Rate ? One of the most interesting statistics about Phoenix is that even as the area expands at a phenomenal rate, the community?s crime rate just keeps dropping in all crime categories. In fact, in comparison to other cities of comparable sized, the greater Phoenix areas crime rates are significantly lower. The crime rate has steadily decreased over the last five years, as an example, robbery and assault rates have dropped 12 and 14 percent respectively.
Reasonable Tax Structure ? In comparison to the other states, Arizona is one of the most attractive states for taxes. Arizona does have a state income tax, a fairly low sales tax, decreased property taxes (in comparison to other states with similar populations), and no estate tax. Arizona is especially attractive to retirees and is given an ?A? grade for taxes, according to the Bloomberg LP report.
Educated Work Force ? Phoenix, and the surrounding area, is rapidly earning a reputation for its highly capable and qualified work force. Statistically, this area boasts a higher percentage of educated employees than almost any other state (64.1 percent in Arizona as opposed to 54.9 percent nationally). Not only is the workforce extremely qualified, but Phoenix employees tend to have much higher work ethics and much lower absenteeism rates than almost any other metropolitan area in the country.
Areas of Interest ? If you love a city with a great deal of entertainment opportunities, the central area of Arizona is perfect. There are a variety of professional sports teams, a number of superior museums, a symphony, wonderful golf courses, parks, and superior colleges and universities.
Whether you are looking for a community to relocate your family, to go to school in, or to retire in, there are few better states than Arizona. This area is rapidly growing. There are a number of excellent real estate values in the area. Even though the market for real estate is considered one of the ?hottest? in the nation, prices are reasonable and the value of homes is steadily increasing. Central Arizona is welcoming to visitors and truly can be considered the Valley of Dreams.
Reg Gustin is a senior loan officer with Sun American Mortgage and specializes in helping families and their financial lending needs. Click here and get a free copy of The Greater Phoenix Area Housing Appreciation Report, as compiled by Arizona State University with your free subscription to his monthly ezine, Arizona Fun Facts. Visit us at http://www.central-arizona-homes.com |
Reg Gustin
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