Liz's Havasu Lifestyle Blog

If you want the best education for your student, you may want to look into Lake Havasu City Schools. We have Lake Havasu students who are becoming college graduates before they finish high school. The Lake Havasu City public school system will see 19 students this year who will graduate college before they graduate high school. This amazing progress is due to the student’s willingness, drive and determination to learn as much as possible as quickly as possible by studying more than other students.

With the help of Lake Havasu City teachers, these students have excelled since grade school and have sailed through honors classes. They can now teach themselves by getting together in study groups. In many cases, swapping sleep for homework is how they will earn their associates degree along side of their high school diploma.

Mohave College gives free assessment test to every sophomore interested in taking free college level courses in high school. If they are accepted they begin taking duel enrollment classes during their junior year. The courses available to them are designated courses that meet state requirements for graduating high school and earning their associates degree.

In college, the first two years is generally basic course requirements. So, by starting college while still in high school, they can jump into their major course study when they graduate and save two years of college tuition. Many of the 19 students believe this is a no brainer because of the money and the time they will save in college. It is also a great challenge to them.

If you are looking to relocate to a city that offers better education for students, give Liz Miller a call. She can help you find a home in one of the most exciting tri-city areas in the nation.

Originally posted at: http://homesforsaleinhavasu.com/2012/01/26/lake-havasu-students-becoming-college-grads-before-finishing-high-school/

This year’s Havasu Island Balloon Festival and Fair will be bigger and better than ever when it begins January 19 through the 22nd. The annual Lake Havasu  Island Balloon Festival and Fair promises to be very exciting and extremely fun filled. This year, the Balloon Festival will include six special shaped balloons in addition to the Hot Air Balloon Mass Ascensions and Night Glows.

There will even be balloon rides offered on tethered balloons, a walk-in balloon, carnival rides, food vendors, live entertainment, skydiving exhibitions, RC Planes, and Arts and Crafts with a variety of other interesting things to see and do.

Here’s a schedule of when you can expect to see this year:

√Thursday, January 19th and Friday 20th – Jack’s entertaining and versatile show will include everything from rodeo dances to grandstand shows, and gospel music festivals to the pulpits of North America.

√Friday, January 20th and Saturday 21st – Our very own local band “Rewind” will perform live. Rewind is a five piece band that provides a large variety of music and entertainment.

√Saturday, January 21st – Dorthy from the Wizard of Oz is visiting the festival.

√Friday, January 20th – The 56th Fighter Wing and 308th Fighter Squadron are volunteering a flyover in the Aviation Heritage Ceremony with two F-16 Falcon Fighters.

This is four fun filled days, come and join us and bring the family. And, give me a call if you're coming to town.

Originally posted at: http://homesforsaleinhavasu.com/2012/01/20/havasu-island-balloon-festival-and-fair-is-back/

Single Family, Site built 1 Story - Lake Havasu City, AZ

One owner, lovingly maintained south side home. Open floor plan, vaulted ceilings, wood burning fireplace. Three split design bedrooms, private master with large walk in closet & tiled walk in shower. Big, bright, chef's kitchen with all appliances, refrigerator, washer & dryer; RO system & water softener.Roomy casual dining space overlooking your large covered tiled patio & private walled yard, plenty of pool room too. Three car boat deep garage with half bath. Lots of side parking on concrete & gated, perfect!

See a full video of the property on YouTube:

For Sale - 4057 Carlsbad Dr. Lake Havasu City, AZ

It can be a daunting task trying to figure out if you are ready to become a homeowner this year. However, there are some signs that you can look for that will help you know, for sure, that you’re ready to buy a home in 2012.

Signs that you may be ready to buy a home:

√You can pay a down payment and closing costs: Your down payment will be determined by a percentage of the mortgage you qualify for. Down payments can range from 3% up to 20% of the property’s value. Your closing costs will include mortgage points, title insurance, financing costs, taxes, and other prepaid items.

√You have become familiar with the real estate market: When buying a home, you need to be somewhat familiar with the current real estate market and have a realistic view about what you need and want in a home. A Realtor® can help the more difficult aspects of buying a home.

√Know what you can afford: For knowing exactly how much mortgage you can afford, there is a general guide to go by. Your monthly mortgage payment should equal to or be less than one-quarter of your gross monthly income. This will allow your finances to go to other debts as well without putting you in a financial bind.

√You have good credit: Having your credit in good shape is a plus when buying a home. Lenders will look at your credit history to see if you are credit worthy for a home loan. If you do not know what your credit score is, you can get a report from all three credit reporting companies simply by requesting one. The top three companies that lenders will view include Equifax, Trans Union and Experian.

√Know that extra expenses will come: Extra expenses will come when you purchase a home. This is much different than renting because you will now have to pay for all maintenance and repairs out of your own pocket.

If you have all the signs that you’re ready to become a homeowner in 2012, contact a Realtor® who can help you find your dream home this New Year.

Originally posted at: http://homesforsaleinhavasu.com/2012/01/05/signs-that-you-may-be-ready-to-become-a-homeowner-in-2012/

When you’re looking for big fun on the first day of the New Year in Lake Havasu City, look no further than Rotary Community Park. The park will be hosting the Tinnell Memorial Sports Park’s “New Year Jam 2012”. This is a huge competition where you will see people competing against one another on bikes, skates, skateboards, and scooters.

Skaters from all ages and skill levels are invited to compete at the south end of Rotary Community Park in the Tinnell Memorial Sports Park. Anyone can sign up to compete; helmets are mandatory. All riders under the age of 18 will need a parents signature to compete. Registration is free and you will have the opportunity to win cash prizes, trophies, and other awards for competing in the event.

Last year’s event was huge with over 100 participants and 300+ spectators. This year is estimated to be even bigger and better. So, bring your family and friends to watch, or come out to ride. Registration will begin at 10am, January 1, 2012. You can find a registration form at www.tinnellmemorialsportspark.com. The main competition starts at 11:00am.

Originally posted at: http://homesforsaleinhavasu.com/2011/12/29/lake-havasu-new-year-jam-2012/

The final stages of construction on Heart of Havasu Park has finally begun, which means it won’t be long before it’s complete. The landscaping company started moving dirt on Heart of Havasu Park on Monday. So, now the dreams of the 2011 leadership and development team can come to light. They had fundraisers to help execute the big project and make it a reality. Now, as it nears the finish, they will replace 21,000 square feet of sod in front of the Lake Havasu City Police Department and Xeriscaping it with the use of native rocks and plants to help conserve water.

In the park makeover you will find three heart shaped landscape areas that will stand out beautifully with the removal of the Bermuda grass that is being replaced by beautiful natural rock and plants that are native to the region. Plants that will require very little water is what is needed. Instead of using the thousands of gallons of water, which has been a big expense for the city over the years.

All of the funding for this project has been through donations, selling stepping stones that are individually engraved, raffles, hosting various fundraising events and dinners along with sponsorships.

The park was unveiled this past May. However, funds were still needed for the finishing touches. The total of the project is about $30,000. And, the final touches will include a third ring with additional pathways.

The Heart of Havasu Park is located at 2360 McCulloch Blvd S., Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403. You get more information on the projects or how to donate by calling the Lake Havasu City Chamber of Commerce at (928) 855-4115.

Origianlly posted at: http://homesforsaleinhavasu.com/2011/12/22/heart-of-the-park-at-havasu-nearing-the-finish/

You can now find a detailed guide to some of Lake Havasu’s most popular hiking trails online. For the past year, the Lake Havasu Convention and Visitor’s Bureau has worked to add the new information to their website for public use. This website addition is already expected to get a lot of use from local residents and visitors to the area.

The objective of the Lake Havasu Convention and Visitor’s Bureau is to detail everything about the community, including the local hiking trails that might bring more visitors to town. And hiking, which is one of Lake Havasu’s bigger attractions, is now expected to be the top attraction.

So, bring your family and friends to give some of these trails a try. Trails are organized from “walks” to “difficult hikes”. They also include distance, scenery, hiking time, photos, GPS coordinates and trail maps. You will even find safety tips for inexperienced hikers.

The Lake Havasu Convention and Visitor’s Bureau is also expected to add more new additions to their website in 2012. One of the biggest additions will include a smartphone friendly website that will help visitors easily locate dining, lodging, events, and venues while they’re here. And, they will be adding an interactive boating section that will include fishing, boat-in beaches, scuba diving, off-roading and golf.

You can view the new online hiking feature at www.golakehavasu.com. Just click on the “activities” tab and choose the “hiking” link.

Originally posted at: http://homesforsaleinhavasu.com/2011/12/16/lake-havasu-area-hiking-trails-now-online/

When you are looking for unique vacation ideas, look no further than Lake Havasu - Arizona’s Playground. You and your family will soon see why Lake Havasu, with three hundred days of sunshine a year, is perfect for all boating, camping, hiking, fishing, off-roading and more. It is definitely quite the place for a great adventure anytime of the year.

Your unique vacation ideas can come to life in this breathtaking landscape with tours over land, air and water. The days here are endless and the nights are spectacular. And, there are lots of events to take part in for the holidays. Lake Havasu is one of the most family-friendly vacation spots in the nation.

While you're here in Lake Havasu for the holidays, check out the Festival of Lights. Each night between 6 and 10pm over 650,000 lights set the Bridgewater Channel alight. You and your family can stroll under the London Bridge along the walkways, or you could take a night cruise on the beautiful waters. No matter what you do, be sure to bring along your camera to capture these special moments with family and friends.

The Festival of Lights is always free to the public, and don't forget to take advantage of the free parking under the London Bridge in the English Village or in The London Bridge Resort and Convention Center.

Enjoy your visit and Happy Holiday’s.

√Venue: London Bridge Resort & the London Bridge

√Address: 1477 Queens Bay - Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403

Originally posted at: http://homesforsaleinhavasu.com/2011/12/08/lake-havasu-–-a-paradise-of-unique-vacation-ideas/

Your event can stay within your budget and your local rental store has everything you need.  They can also offer good advice to eliminate the stress.  In the long run you’ll save money on items you may only use once.  So why not rent and have an amazing holiday party in your home.

If you’re considering a move to Lake Havasu City, please take a look at one of the homes awaiting you http://searchallproperties.com/listings/859328/1680-MCCULLOCH-BLVD-S-Lake-Havasu-City-AZ.

Originally posted at: http://homesforsaleinhavasu.com/2011/12/01/making-your-holiday-event-standout-from-the-rest