[TowerTalk] OT: Location Location?

[BobK8IA at aol.com]

In a message dated 4/5/2003 4:51:10 PM US Mountain Standard Time, 
w8aef at worldnet.att.net writes:


> In Phoenix, Arizona you have to stay away from the newer (after 1980)
> subdivisions.  You either have to get right down town (in the older area) 
> or
> out in the country.  Even in some parts of rural Arizona you have to be
> careful.
> 
> In 1995/6 we were looking and made a few purchase offers with "subject to
> buyers approval of CC&R's, if any" as a contingency.  Got us out of 2 deals
> without any problems and really upset the sellers in both cases.
> 
> I found that it helps if you do not fall in love with the place you are
> looking at.  Kinda hard to do if a significant other is involved but that 
> is
> where I am really fortunate in having the support of my wife.
> 
> de Paul, W8AEF
> 
> 

Paul is pretty accurate. I just moved to the Phoenix area in October and an 
extensive search began the previous May (May 2002). I enlisted the help of an 
agent who my son trusted (my son works for a title agency) and who was a good 
friend of my son as well.

My instructions to him were simple "I am interested in a home having XXX 
features in a $YYY to $ZZZ price range on a lot at least an acre. AND it must 
NOT have a HOA or any restrictive CCR's and be in a community that permits at 
least a 70' tower." (My concession, considering the cities around Phoenix, ny 
present ham needs etc). 

That agent busted his butt. After screening 54 homes with me and tying 
himself to me for many days, I finally found this place about 35 miles east 
of downtown Phoenix. Not fancy, just fine for 2 people in the twilight yrs 
that enjoy some seclusion, yet like to ride our motorcycles and me to ham a 
bit. Its an acre with backyard surrounded by a 6' block wall and closest 
neighbor about 300' away prefect. ;-) The city has a ham tower ordinance, 
75',  but I found it very workable. Easy. My tower is up and I am happy with 
no muss or fuss re HOA idiots or restrictive CCR's. People are pretty much 
live and let live here in rural metro Phoenix, and I like that!

Dont take the condemnation of agents as universal. Find one who really cares 
about your interest and work with him/her. Give him/her time to help you 
(i.e.dont give him instructions like mine and then say  "I need to move in a 
month"). Mine took 5 months and all is well!

Oh, Geo, one other thing. I dont think there's any room for another ham in 
this neighborhood. <grin>

73,Bob K8IA
far eastern Mesa, Arizona USA
near the Superstition Mtns