Liz's Havasu Lifestyle Blog

Lake Havasu People and Animals Share

Liz Miller (Keller Williams Arizona Living Realty) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:21:34 -0500

Lake Havasu people and animals will soon be sharing a three-way water fountain near the hiking, walking and biking trials of Lake Havasu City. The Lake Havasu High School Honor Society, Western Arizona Humane Society, and the City Parks and Recreation department have teamed up on a project that will install a three way water fountain for both people and dogs on the far side of the Island next to the biking, hiking and walking trails where it is needed most.

The installation and maintenance will be provided by the parks department. The group has a goal to raise $3,500 to help with the costs of the fountain. The fountain will also be ADA regulated for the accommodation of people with physical disabilities. The area around the water fountain will even be beautifully landscaped with native plants and rocks.

This project is part of a national “Day of Service” program, a program that is designed to help students experience the wonderful rewards of giving back to the local community.

Once the fountain is installed, you can find it on the Island path just across from the Site Six entrance. Contributions are always welcome. If you would like to contribute to this project and more like it, you can send your contributions to the Western Arizona Humane Society at 1100 Empire Drive, Lake Havasu City, AZ, 86406. Or, you can contact them at 928-855-5083.

Originally posted at: http://homesforsaleinhavasu.com/2012/02/02/lake-havasu-people-and-animals-share/

Lake Havasu Students Becoming College Grads before Finishing High School

Liz Miller (Keller Williams Arizona Living Realty) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 16:50:29 -0500

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/

Havasu Island Balloon Festival and Fair is Back

Liz Miller (Keller Williams Arizona Living Realty) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 22:30:52 -0500

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/

For Sale - 4057 Carlsbad Drive, Lake Havasu City, AZ

Liz Miller (Keller Williams Arizona Living Realty) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 17:03:24 -0500

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

Signs That You May be Ready to Become a Homeowner in 2012

Liz Miller (Keller Williams Arizona Living Realty) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 17:50:59 -0500

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/

Lake Havasu New Year Jam 2012

Liz Miller (Keller Williams Arizona Living Realty) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 17:30:36 -0500

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/

Heart of the Park at Havasu Nearing the Finish

Liz Miller (Keller Williams Arizona Living Realty) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 17:39:10 -0500

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/

Lake Havasu Area Hiking Trails Now Online

Liz Miller (Keller Williams Arizona Living Realty) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 19:06:17 -0500

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/

Lake Havasu – A Paradise of Unique Vacation Ideas

Liz Miller (Keller Williams Arizona Living Realty) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 16:00:32 -0500

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/

Making Your Holiday Event Standout from the Rest

Liz Miller (Keller Williams Arizona Living Realty) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 17:09:01 -0500

When you have family and friends over for the holidays, you probably want to make a really good impression and make your guests comfortable. Most likely you won’t have everything you’ll need sitting around the house, but you won’t have to break the bank to buy everything you’ll need. Your local rental store will be able to help with almost everything you could need.

Here is a list of things that can make your holiday standout from the rest:

Add extra flair to your event by using a champagne fountain or margarita machine, which you can get from the party rental place. Either choice will be a great surprise to your guests.

Set the table with the latest styles in linens, china and silver. If you don’t have these items or can’t borrow them from family or friends you can get them at the rental store.

Elegant lighting and a glowing centerpiece will create the perfect look and feel. Little things like this make a huge impact on the festive mood.

Seating, seating, seating…If you don’t have enough seating you can rent these items from the local rental store also. This will make your guests comfortable and let them know you aim to please everyone.

The first impression comes outside your home, so make sure your outdoor decoration just as elegant as your inside decorations.

Go big, go hot…If your event is a large one, it may be difficult to keep the food hot. Rent food preparation equipment such as chafing dishes and warmers to ensure everything will be hot when you’re ready for your dinner guests. This will help you to have a wonderful dining experience.

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

Trip Advisor Features Lake Havasu for Vacation Destinations

Liz Miller (Keller Williams Arizona Living Realty) — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 09:41:03 -0500

Recently, Lake Havasu was featured on TripAdvisor.com for top vacation destinations. Even during the holiday season you will find Lake Havasu on many people’s top places to vacation.

Formed in 1938 just after the Parker Dam was built, Lake Havasu City has become the center-point for many visitors from miles around. It is most famous for the London Bridge that actually did come from London after being purchased by Robert McCullough for $2,460,000 in 1968. Lake Havasu is now one the most popular vacation destinations in Arizona and surrounding areas. There is an array of recreational activities to enjoy for families, single travelers and couples. Some activities include Golf on championship courses, boating, swimming, kayaking, water skiing, bicycling, soaking up the sun and much more. Like most resort towns, Lake Havasu is full of places to eat, stay and play.

Below is a list of what was featured on TripAdvisor.com:

Top-rated Hotels

* Heat Hotel

* Travelodge Lake Havasu

* Hidden Palms Resort

* Hampton Inn Lake Havasu City

* Havasu Dunes

Top-rated B&B’s

* Bridgewater Motel

* Twin Palms Inn

Top-rated Restaurants

* Shugrue’s Restaurant and Bakery

* Mario’s Italian Restaurant

* Scoops

Find more information about Lake Havasu and homes for sale in Lake Havasu at www.HavasuAreaHomes.com.

Originally posted at: http://homesforsaleinhavasu.com/2011/11/24/trip-advisor-features-lake-havasu-for-vacation-destinations

The Great Turkey Dive in Lake Havasu

Liz Miller (Keller Williams Arizona Living Realty) — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 17:54:11 -0500

Come out to Lake Havasu with your family and friends to enjoy Lake Havasu’s great Turkey Dive. On November 24^th at 9 a.m. come out to Site Five at 591 Beachcomber Blvd. to see if you can find the rubber Turkey. The Thanksgiving Turkey Dive is a great way to get your body ready to burn all those holiday calories that you will consume later that day. The finder will get a great prize.

Venue:

Site Five

591 Beachcomber Blvd.

Lake Haasu City, AZ 86403

Contact:

Kathy Weydig, Organizer

Phone 928-855-9400

Email Kathy@trimixdiver.com

Website: www.techdivinglimited.com

Tech Diving Limited will be hosting the Turkey Dive. They are the leading source for technical diving equipment in Lake Havasu. Since 2004 they have served thousands of experienced divers worldwide with quality scuba diving equipment that comes from the finest manufacturers and fabricators.

Tech Diving Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Scuba Training and Technology Inc. TDL has a unique perspective when it comes to knowing the needs technical divers. They serve divers from all walks of life with the absolute best equipment for the task at hand. Whether it is a scientific diver exploring caves 300 feet below the surface or a new diver who is unskilled.

This will be a fun and exciting event for the Holiday season. So, get out and enjoy it!

North Pointe Grand Opening - Lake Havasu, AZ

Liz Miller (Keller Williams Arizona Living Realty) — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 19:20:00 -0500

Originally posted at: http://homesforsaleinhavasu.com/2011/11/11/north-pointe-grand-opening-lake-havasu-az

Protect and Enhance Your Home’s Value

Liz Miller (Keller Williams Arizona Living Realty) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 18:07:43 -0400

Many homeowners don’t realize that their home is also a savings account. You can do many inexpensive things to your home to protect and enhance its value without beating up your wallet.

Here are some ideas for protecting and enhancing your home’s value:

* Declutter – Money is the only good thing to hoard, so when it comes to your home you can get rid of many items to help declutter your space. Shoeboxes, magazines, newspapers, and more are nothing more than junk that causes clutter. Reclaim your home and add more square footage by getting rid of any and all junk. The holiday season is now upon us, so it makes it an even better time to declutter.

* Switch-it-up – Give your space a new look by rearranging your rooms. Moving furniture and wall hangings can jazz up any space. It’s like getting a home makeover for free.

* Swap it – For very little investment you can swap out knobs, pulls and other items that will refresh your rooms. Add decorative switch plates, update doorknobs and drawer pulls for the most effect.

* Paint, paint, paint – A little paint on the outside trim of your home can go a long way. Touchup the trim, window frames, shutters and front doors for less than $60. And, never let unused paint go to waste. You can use leftovers for rehabbing old furniture, wooden fences or flower pots.

* Spruce up the outside – Start pulling every weed in sight of your flower beds and lay some fresh mulch. If you don’t have flower beds, create some. They make a yard look lovely.

You don’t have to put a huge investment into enhancing your home’s value. And, by keeping it up, you’ll have less to do when it comes time to sell.

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/2011/11/03/protect-and-enhance-your-home%e2%80%99s-value

Estimator for Bathroom and Remodeling

Liz Miller (Keller Williams Arizona Living Realty) — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 20:51:44 -0400

If your plan is to remodel, you’ll need to know what your budget can allow before you contact contractors. You can try a project calculator which uses the largest construction database available to provide you a custom estimate on your project. The amazing thing is you can put in your zip code and project information and the Remodeling Budget Estimator will give you figures for dimensions, contractor, labor, material and local pricing.

The DIY Network site uses information from the most respected data sources that spans over thirty years in the construction industry. The data consist of a multitude of factors that impact your project, such as the consumer price index, specific materials, exact dimensions, local pricing and markup by the contractor.

The research is updated every 90 days throughout the nation to stay on top of material cost by hundreds of lumberyards. They compile labor cost by tracking trends and also collect data from professional remodeling contractors who use this pricing service. The costs are collected from over 200 areas in the nation and are priced to your particular area. The price from the DIY Network site is determined by the information you give the calculator. However, when you have a contractor come in they may find there are things that were not taken into consideration or a number of things that could impact the end price. Some factors that can affect the project are weather, unusual terrain, access to the work area, and scheduling.

You can find the remodeling estimator on the DIY Network site at: www.CostEstimator.com/diy/index.jsp

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/2011/10/21/estimator-for-bathroom-and-remodeling