An AZ Owner’s Manual?

Ever wish you had an owner’s manual for your life? 

We have ‘em for the toaster. And, for the vacuum.  One for the car.  I’ve got one for the TV, the microwave, the cell phone and even the alarm clock. 

But, when we move into a Phoenix area home, we have to go without? What’s up with that.

Ah, contraire. 

The home inspection is the important first step to learning about your new home.  The inspector will walk you through the home and can show you all sorts of things you’d never think to ask about – From the electrical box, to the fire sprinkler shut-off valves; they are a great source for all sorts of important stuff.  Ask and he (or she) will take all the time you need.  Have them walk you around the home and point out the sewer clean outs, the circuit breaker, the water main.  They can help with not only the items needing fixing, but with suggestions for on-going preventative maintenance to keep your new home in as good of condition as possible.  And, don’t feel you can’t get an inspection if you’re not buying a home.  Use them periodically to give your home a periodic “physical.”  You’ll be glad you did.

After moving in, another great resource is your home warranty company.  They want to keep your home running smoothly, so tap into them for all sorts of helpful preventative tips.

Ok, then what? 

Ask any one and they’ll tell you.  Arizona’s a bit different.  For one, it’s the climate.  For another, the soil is sand and hard as a rock.  Well, I’ve learned to look forward to a couple of publications that come to me monthly.  Sunset and Phoenix Home & Gardens.  I couldn’t go without.

Each month, I get gardening and landscaping advice from experts that understand Arizona, our soil and our plants.  There are tips about what to plant when, what to trim where and what to feed.  Plus, great ideas for the spontaneous weekend getaway.  Anything you need about living indoors or out.  I get the complete calendar of events – all the art events, the shows, charity fundraisers and happenings around the state and am never at a loss for what to do.  Plus, some terrific tips on keeping my home looking its best.

For me, these pubs are my Arizona owner’s manuals.  No one twisted my arm to give ‘em a plug – I’ve just found the recipe for great Arizona living.

©2010 Tom Weiskopf, PLLC.  Tom Weiskopf, PLLC is an AZ licensed real estate agent with John Hall & Associates serving the Phoenix area. For more information, Tom can be reached at (602) 953-4000 or via e-mail at phxareahomes@gmail.com. 

Desert Landscaping from A to Z!

Low maintenance desert landscaping near Scottsdale's Hidden Hills.

Are you a do-it-yourself landscaper? Many of us are. After all, how hard can it be to dig a hole and plant a plant?


If you’re like me, you’ve replaced a countless number of plants because they didn’t make it. Too much sun or too much shade. Maybe not enough water, or it was just too darn hot. I’ve learned growing a lush and inviting Arizona yard is much different here than in other parts of the country. Take it from me - you need to consult with the pros.

In these turbulent times, I’d rather not fork over my hard earned pesos for a landscaper unless absolutely necessary. But, at the same time - and with my schedule - I just don’t seem to have that much time to devote working on the yard. [Plus, sometimes we all just deserve a little down time now and then where we can chill and sip on an Arnold Palmer poolside.] So, is there an option?

I don’t have a gardener, and I don’t intend too, either! But, I still want a yard that is thriving with native desert plant life and lush flora. And, make that all year round, too! Is such a dream even possible?

Dramatic agave

Low maintenance desert landscaping can be easier than you think! I’ve stumbled across a terrific resource about desert plants – and it focuses on water conservation! The Arizona Municipal Water Association has devoted a great deal of time and energy to help people like me enjoy the true beauty of the Arizona desert. It’s like the Arizona almanac for desert plants – you’ll find a wealth of information on all sorts of trees, shrubs, ground covers, cactus, grasses, flowers and succulents. Information on how to plant them, how to care for them and tips to make them thrive. It’s a terrific resource and should be required reading for any Phoenix area home owner. Check it out.

Don’t get me wrong – I do break down and call a landscaper every once in awhile. A couple of times year, the crew stops by and trims my hard-to-reach trees, blows the debris and rakes my granite. Sort of like a seasonal clean-up, I guess you could say. But, now I’m the one to suggest what kind of plant would be a great candidate for that bare spot – the perfect plant to mask the block wall or add a fragrant aroma to my patio.

Blooming Jacaranda

Just because we live in the desert doesn’t mean we can’t have a vibrant landscape! Your desert yard can be a beautiful place any time of the year!

©2010 Tom Weiskopf, PLLC. Tom Weiskopf, PLLC is an AZ licensed real estate agent with John Hall & Associates serving the Phoenix area. For more information, Tom can be reached at (602) 953-4000 or via e-mail at phxareahomes@gmail.com.